Recently updated on February 1st, 2020 at 05:51 pm
Malaysia is a bubbling, bustling melting-pot of races and religions where Malaysians, Indians, Chinese and many other ethnic groups live together in peace and harmony. From Kuala Lumpur’s dizzying, futuristic high-rises to ancient holy sites and heritage buildings, Malaysia is a captivating juxtaposition of cultures. In fact, the country’s colonial history and regional influences have helped shape it into the magnificent corner of Southeast Asia it is today. When heading to this enchanting destination, here’s six things you must do when visiting Malaysia.
Take Tea in the Clouds
The rolling green hills of Cameron Highlands seemingly kiss the sky with their lofty peaks. Sitting at 1542 metres above sea level is Pahang, Malaysia’s largest hill station, and home to carpets of lush, verdant tea plantations punctuated with small farmsteads and quaint villages. After drinking in the awe-inspiring vistas, pay a visit to a tea factory to see how it is harvested and prepared before sampling a delicious cuppa.
Get Lost in the Batu Caves
In Selangor, northern Kuala Lumpur, a limestone hill features an intricate network of ancient caves and cave temples. Guarded by an imposing gold statue of Murugan, the Hindu god of war, Batu Caves are one of the most popular Hindu shrines outside of India. Up a flight of 272 steps, inside, the astonishing cave complex houses shrines, temples and rock-paintings – worth the sweat-busting climb for.
Eat Street Food in Penang

A bustling metropolis full of travellers and expats from neighbouring Thailand, Indonesia, and Singapore, Penang has a melting pot of cuisines. Street food is a way of life for Malaysians and the best place to experience the tastes and aromas of the country are hitting up the stalls and vendors that line Penang’s streets. Laksa is a signature spicy noodle soup you must seek out along with nasi lemak – a medley of coconut rice, cucumber, fried anchovy served in a banana leaf.
Discover the Orang Asli Community
Malaysia’s indigenous inhabitants, the Orang Asli community is a collective of 18 different tribes from across the country. Today, they reside in the rainforest or small villages. Discover their beautiful handicrafts and cooking techniques before learning the popular puzzle game, ‘jah re noi’.
Scale the Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur
Vertigo sufferers, look away. Standing at approximately 1483ft high, Kuala Lumpur’s Petronas Towers are the tallest twin towers in the world. A dazzling work of contemporary architecture, the Cesar Pelli-designed structures house corporate headquarters and a shopping mall on the lower levels. Head up to floor 86 to reach the observation deck and walk across the Skybridge which connects the two towers.
Journey up Penang Hill by Train
Slowly glide up the steep Penang Hill on its funicular railway. The historic rail station which dates back to the 1700s is Asia’s longest and ascends all the way to the top of the hill where you can admire the vast panorama of Georgetown below. You’ll be rewarded with a mosque, Hindu temple and an abundance of greenery.
If you’d like to experience these seven wonders of Malaysia, click here to discover Trafalgar’s Malaysian tours.
Image Credits: Lead image © iStock/Rat0007. Malacca River © iStock/VII-photo. Cameron Highlands © iStock/DasMaddin. Penang Hill © iStock/Purple-Gecko. Orang Asli village © iStock/Remanz. Batu Caves © iStock/Nini. Street food © iStock/ErmakovaElena,