What to see in Malaysia: top 10 attractions

Malaysia is a true gem in Southeast Asia, where modern metropolises meet ancient rainforests, and vibrant cultures blend together in a fascinating mix.

But what should you see in Malaysia?

In this guide, we dive into some of Malaysia’s most spectacular attractions.

What is Malaysia known for?

Malaysia is particularly known for its contrasts between modernity and cultural diversity, where Malay, Chinese, and Indian cultures merge to create a truly unique atmosphere. This is reflected not only in local architecture but also in its many street food stalls.

Additionally, nature lovers adore Malaysia. Borneo, which Malaysia shares with Indonesia and Brunei, is home to some of the world’s oldest rainforests, with rare species like orangutans and proboscis monkeys.

Here are our top 10 must-see attractions when visiting Malaysia.

Petronas Towers – The world’s tallest twin towers

In the heart of Malaysia’s capital, Kuala Lumpur, the Petronas Twin Towers soar into the sky.

Standing approximately 452 metres high, the Petronas Twin Towers are the world’s tallest twin towers.

The towers are constructed in a style inspired by Islamic architecture, and their shape, based on an eight-pointed star, symbolises the core Islamic tenets: unity, harmony, stability, and rationality.

You can admire the majestic twin towers from the ground or venture up to the observation deck on the 86th floor for a panoramic view of Kuala Lumpur.

Batu Caves – Malaysia’s top sight

You can hardly mention Malaysia without mentioning the Batu Caves. With its iconic rainbow-coloured staircase and the nearly 43-metre-high statue of the Hindu god Murugan, the Batu Caves have almost become a symbol of Malaysia.

Located just 13 kilometres north of Kuala Lumpur, the caves are one of Malaysia’s most significant sights. The climb up the 272 colourful steps, shared with curious macaques, is an experience in itself.

The impressive limestone caves, over 400 million years old, also house a temple that has been an important Hindu sanctuary in Malaysia since its establishment in 1920.

George Town

George Town, the capital of Penang Island, is one of Malaysia’s most culturally exciting cities.

The city boasts a unique blend of British colonial architecture, Chinese temples, colourful mosques, and bustling markets, which is why it was inscribed on the UNESCO world heritage list in 2008, alongside Melaka.

One of the key attractions in George Town is the striking street art that adorns the city’s walls, certain to catch your eye as you wander through the town.

George Town is also a paradise for food lovers. Penang Island is renowned as Malaysia’s street food capital. A stroll through its busy streets offers aromas and flavours from Chinese, Malaysian, and Indian cuisine – a culinary experience you won’t soon forget!

Penang Hill

Just outside of George Town lies Penang Hill, the highest point on Penang Island.

From the summit, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views over George Town and the surrounding forest landscape, with cafés and restaurants where you can dine while enjoying the vista. You might even find yourself in the company of macaques that reside on Penang Hill.

There are several ways to reach the top of Penang Hill. Take the funicular railway and watch the city disappear beneath you, or lace up your hiking boots and make your way up on foot. Multiple routes lead to the summit, and you can even hike halfway and hop onto the railway mid-journey.

Dutch Square, Melaka

In Melaka, which, as mentioned, shares UNESCO recognition with George Town, you will find Dutch Square, also known as the Red Square.

Here, you can experience a part of Malaysia’s colonial and multicultural history up close. The square is surrounded by historic buildings and monuments, all painted in red.

Between the 1500s and 1800s, Melaka was under the control of various colonial powers, whose cultural heritage remains evident today. Highlights include the Stadthuys, which means town hall in Dutch, reputedly the oldest Dutch building in the East.

Dutch Square also features an old clock tower initiated by Chinese governance in the 1800s, a fountain dedicated to the British Queen, and a Catholic church erected by the Portuguese in the 1500s.

Sungai Palas Plantation

Cameron Highlands is famous for its beautiful, rolling tea plantations, and Sungai Palas Plantation is among the most impressive.

Owned by BOH Tea, Malaysia’s largest tea producer, it is one of the country’s oldest and most renowned plantations. Visitors can witness the entire process from picking the leaves to the finished tea.

Standing among the lush, green tea bushes stretching as far as the eye can see, you will be treated to a breathtaking view of the highlands.

During a tour of the tea factory, you can learn about tea production and afterwards enjoy a freshly brewed cup of tea in the café, with panoramic views over the plantation. It’s also possible to purchase tea to take home from their shop.

Mossy Forest

In Malaysia’s verdant highlands, the Cameron Highlands, lies the 200-million-year-old Mossy Forest.

It almost feels like stepping into a fairy tale as you explore the ancient forest along paths and boardwalks. The trees are covered with a thick layer of moss, which gives the forest its name, and the area is often shrouded in dense mist, creating a mystical and almost otherworldly atmosphere.

Mossy Forest is situated around 2,000 metres above sea level, allowing you to enjoy the stunning views over the Cameron Highlands scenic landscape from lookout points in the forest.

Kinabatangan River

In Sabah’s lush rainforest lies Malaysia’s second-longest river, the Kinabatangan River – one of the most biodiverse river systems in the world.

The Kinabatangan River meanders through Borneo’s dense rainforest, serving as a vital waterway for the region’s wildlife, making it one of Malaysia’s prime destinations for animal lovers.

The best way to experience the Kinabatangan River is on an early morning or evening boat safari. During the soft morning light and at sunset, you have the greatest chance of spotting proboscis monkeys, crocodiles, pygmy elephants, and a myriad of colourful birds. With some luck, you might even glimpse a clouded leopard cat or the rare Bornean orangutans swinging through the treetops.

Besides the impressive wildlife, the boat trip allows you to savour the fascinating sounds of the rainforest, where cicadas and frogs blend with the distant calls of gibbons. Several local lodges along the river offer stays amidst nature, where you can wake up to the jungle sounds and embark on daily adventures in Borneo’s wild expanse.

Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre

A journey to Borneo isn’t complete without an encounter with the unique orangutans.

Apart from Sumatra, Borneo is the only place in the world where wild orangutans are found. Sadly, this species of orangutan is severely endangered, with the population having declined by more than 50% over the past 60 years.

The Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, located in Sabah, provides a unique opportunity to see orangutans in their natural habitat.

At the centre, nestled in a rainforest reserve, orphaned orangutans are cared for with the aim of eventually releasing them back into the wild. The orangutans roam freely in the rainforest, covering an area of 43 km², and you can witness them daily as they are fed on a platform in the heart of the reserve. There are approximately 80-100 orangutans in the reserve.

Mount Kinabalu – Borneo’s highest peak

Standing at 4,095 metres above sea level, Mount Kinabalu is the highest mountain in Malaysia and offers one of Borneo’s most breathtaking natural spectacles.

The mountain is situated in Kinabalu National Park, a UNESCO world heritage site renowned for its incredible biodiversity and unique flora and fauna.

Climbing Mount Kinabalu is a challenging but unforgettable experience. The trek to the summit typically takes two days and requires an overnight stay at one of the mountain’s lodges.

As you ascend, you’ll pass through several climatic zones, from lush rainforests to barren rock formations near the top. Upon reaching Low’s Peak, you’re rewarded with an unforgettable sunrise over the mountain peaks and the clouds beneath you.

Ready to experience Malaysia?

Malaysia is a destination that truly has it all – from cutting-edge architecture and vibrant city life to untouched nature and fascinating wildlife. Whether you dream of exploring attractions in major cities like Kuala Lumpur, encountering rare wildlife in the jungles of Borneo, or relaxing on pristine sandy beaches, an adventure awaits every traveller.

Check out our tours to Malaysia, and find the one that matches your dreams. Unsure which to choose? Our travel specialists are ready to assist you in planning your Malaysian adventure.

We look forward to helping you embark on the tour of a lifetime.

TourCompass – From tourist to traveller.