Explore Malaysia
Originating from the Malay kingdoms present, Malaysia is a bubbling, bustling melting-pot of races and religions where Malays, Indians, Chinese and many other ethnic groups live together in peace and harmony. Throughout the region is an impressive variety of microcosms ranging from the space-age high-rises of Kuala Lumpur to the smiling longhouse villages of Sarawak. Indeed, this fascinating country beckons all. From the experienced traveller to the uninitiated first timer exploring its charms, Malaysia has managed to seduce them all. One of the main attractions of Malaysia is the contrast one finds at every turn. Right from the impressive and modern Petronas towers to the 400 million years old Batu caves, from the concrete jungle to the wild and untamed natural jungle, Malaysia promises them all. Right from the elaborate festivities, unique arts and crafts, dance forms, food and architecture to the pristine rainforests, exotic wildlife, wooded mountain ridges, cascading rapids, and icy cold waterfalls. From the rugged mountains to the warm, sandy beaches, from the local cuisine to the various international mouth-watering fares, the traveller is spoilt for choice.
Best Time to Visit
Malaysia is a year round destination with rains falling evenly throughout the year and the temperatures remaining between 21 degrees to 33 degrees. The monsoons are an important feature of the climate - Malaysia has two monsoons, one in August-September and the other between November and February. However the rains fall in short heavy shower bursts, ending just as quickly as it comes.The east coast of Peninsular Malaysia receives heavy rain from November to mid-February. So beach buffs and water sports enthusiastic can avoid these months for travel. However, weather wise the best time to visit Malaysia is between the months of May till September when the days are warm at 28 degrees. However being holiday season, the hotels are all booked out and it’s better to book well in advance.
Holidays@Leisure recommends “must see” places in Malaysia.
A visit to Malaysia is incomplete without a visit to the iconic Petronas Twin Towers. This 88 storey twin tower is Kuala Lumpur's crown jewel and offers breathtaking views of Kuala Lumpur city. So popular are the towers that when someone says Malaysia the first to come to the mind is the Petronas Twin Towers.
The Batu Caves give a fantastic mix of adventure and culture. One of Malaysia’s holiest places, they make you feel like you were in some sort of Indiana Jones movie set. Soaring vine-clad cliffs surround the caves while monkeys play beside the 272 steps that take you to the temple proper. Batu Caves are one of the largest Hindu temples outside India.
Survive the Snake Temple in Penang. Sometimes known as the Temple of the Azure Cloud, the shrine is most famed for the many poisonous snakes that can be seen everywhere. But do not get alarmed as these snakes have been rendered passive by the cloying sweet smell of incense and nobody has yet been bitten.
Visit limestone caves across Malaysia. Ipoh has limestone hills whose beauty is so magnificent that they make you catch your breath when you look upon them in the wee hours of the morning as sunlight breaks over the Kinta Valley.
The Penan, an ethnic group of Borneo. Live with and learn about Borneo’s most fascinating, secretive and least understood tribes.
Escape the heat and humidity of the coast at Mt. Kinabalu. There are several fine walking trails in the rainforest at the base of the mountain and the climate is agreeably cool. If you are feeling adventurous, then climb the world’s highest Via Ferrata on Mt. Kinabalu. The climb is arduous but the sight is worth the effort.
Go jungle trekking through the jungles of Taman Negara National Park. Enjoy unbelievable sights as you walk on the great canopy walkway. The best time of the day to really enjoy the experience is at night when all the sounds of the jungle surround you.
Orang Utans. Get up close with the orang-utans at Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre in Sandakan, Borneo. Set up for those Orang Utans who have been hurt while hunting, this centre gives you a great opportunity to observe these ‘wild men of Borneo’ in their natural habitats.
Langkawi Island. Those looking for some sun, sand, beach, surf and diving should head for Langkawi Island. Home of white sandy beaches, cocktails and beautiful coral reefs filled with exotic fish, Langkawi is where you come to relax and get a tan. While here, get on to the Skybridge for some unbelievable photo opportunities. Also go shopping here as everything on sale is duty free.
Cameroon Highlands. Take a break from the heat and humidity of Malaysia and drive down to Cameroon Highlands. One of the largest hill stations in entire Malaysia, the weather of Cameroon Highlands is favourable for tea leaves, strawberries and many exotic flowers. Hence you can visit any of the numerous farms and buy fresh products.
Try your luck at the casinos of Genting Highlands. And if gambling is not your cup of tea, you can always hop over to the theme parks and experience an adrenaline rush at many of the rides. Built on top of a mountain bordered between the Malaysian states of Pahang and Selangor, Genting Highlands boasts of 3 casinos, outdoor and indoor theme parks, malls and numerous hotels and restaurants.
Try savoury and exotic Malaysian Food. The diverse cuisines found reflects the wide variety of racial and ethnic groups that comprise the country. Most hawker stalls and menus will feature items from the Malaysian, Indian, Chinese and Western culinary traditions, all under one roof.
Relieve your childhood and let the child in you free at Legoland Malaysia. Situated in Nusajaya, Johor, it is Asia’s first Legoland theme park and has over 40 interactive rides, shows and attractions
