Travel to Malaysia — everything you need to know

When to go to Malaysia?

Weather in Malaysia

Check the weather city by city, starting with Kuala Lumpur.

What to do in Malaysia?

Malaysia is a mosaic of cultures (Malay, Chinese, Indian, Dayak) set within lush nature. From the Petronas Towers of Kuala Lumpur to the Bornean forests where orangutans live, by way of the beaches of Langkawi and the Cameron Highlands, the country offers breathtaking diversity.

Kuala Lumpur

The Malaysian capital is dominated by the Petronas Towers (452 m), the tallest buildings in the world from 1998 to 2004. The Indian district of Brickfields, Chinatown and the colonial Merdeka Square coexist in a vibrant, multicultural metropolis.

Highlights : Petronas Towers, Batu Caves, Menara KL Tower.

Penang

Penang Island is Malaysia's food capital. George Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is famous for its street art murals, colourful shophouses and Nyonya cuisine (Malay-Chinese fusion). Temples, mosques and hawker centres coexist harmoniously there.

Highlights : George Town (old town), Penang Hill (Bukit Bendera), George Town Street Art, Kek Lok Si Temple.

Malaysian Borneo (Sabah & Sarawak)

Sabah and Sarawak are home to some of the richest rainforests in Southeast Asia. Sepilok orangutans, Sabah rhinos, Niah caves and Mount Kinabalu (4,095 m, the highest peak in Malaysia) set in extraordinary primary jungle.

Highlights : Sepilok Rehabilitation Centre, Mount Kinabalu, Niah Caves, Mulu National Park.

Langkawi

The Langkawi archipelago (99 islands) is Malaysia's beach paradise, with white sand beaches, mangroves and geopark forests. Duty-free shopping, a cable car and clear water make it a relaxing island getaway.

Highlights : Pantai Cenang, Langkawi Sky Bridge, Kilim Karst Geoforest Park, Tanjung Rhu.

Travel budget for Malaysia

Malaysia is very affordable for a highly developed country. Street food (hawker fare) is excellent and cheap. KL is affordable compared to other Asian capitals.

Practical tips for travelling to Malaysia

Compare Malaysia with other destinations