Malaysia, a Southeast Asian gem, is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes and vibrant cultural tapestry. From the pristine beaches of Langkawi to the lush rainforests of Borneo, Malaysia’s diverse geography offers breathtaking scenery at every turn. The iconic Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur stand as symbols of the country’s rapid modernization, while historic cities like Melaka and George Town showcase a rich blend of colonial and local heritage.
Culturally, Malaysia is a harmonious melting pot, home to Malays, Chinese, Indians, and numerous indigenous groups, each contributing to a rich mosaic of traditions, languages, and cuisines. Festivals such as Hari Raya, Chinese New Year, and Deepavali are celebrated with exuberant parades, colorful costumes, and delicious feasts, reflecting the country’s multicultural spirit. Visitors are enchanted by Malaysia’s warmth and hospitality, vibrant street markets, and mouthwatering dishes like nasi lemak and laksa, making it a captivating destination for travelers seeking both natural beauty and cultural richness.
Things to know before you travel to Malaysia
Languages: The four main Malaysian languages are Malay, Mandarin, Tamil and English. The diverse Malaysian country is home to a diverse 137 living languages!
Climate: Malaysia has a tropical climate, characterized by high humidity and temperatures ranging from 77°F to 95°F (25°C to 35°C) year-round. Best time to visit the West coast of Peninsular Malaysia – November to March. Best time to visit the East coast of Peninsular Malaysia – March to September.
Currency: Malaysian Ringgit, abbreviated as MYR and symbolized as RM.
Cash and cards: Its a good idea to keep a mix of cash and card here.
Visa and Flight Tickets
Indian nationals are required to apply for a Visa to enter Malaysia. However, till the 31 December 2024, the country is visa free for Indians!
The various visa types available for tourists are as follows –
a) Single entry visa (Tourist Visa) – Fee: USD 20-40 (approx) with a validity of upto 30 days.
b) Multiple entry visa – Fee: USD 30-50. Typically valid for multiple entries over a period of 3-12 months, with each stay not exceeding 30 days.
c) Visa on arrival – Available for citizens of certain countries arriving from specific destinations (like Thailand, Singapore, Indonesia). Fee: USD 100 (approx) with a validity of upto 7 days.
d) E-visa – Fee: USD 25-45 (approx) with a validity of upto 30 days and can be used for single or multiple entries, depending on the visa type.
Checkout the official website for all the latest details – Click here
In addition to a visa, Tourists are also required to file a digital arrival form within 3 days of their arrival date. Link to the arrival form. This is mandatory and is checked during immigrations!
Accomodation
Malaysia is touted as one of those places in the world where affordability meets luxury. You can accommodations with stunning views for as low as INR 4000 a night.
I would highly recommend booking an apartment style hotel which come with a fully loaded kitchen, washing machines, large halls!
For the islands, would recommend booking resorts as they too are affordable compared to other popular island locations!
Kindly note, it is very common to take a deposit ranging between MYR 200-MYR 400 in hotels and resorts at the time of check in which is refundable upon checkout. Please carry cash accordingly.
How to get around in Malaysia
a) Public Transportation
– Light Rail Transit (LRT) and Mass Rapid Transit (MRT): Efficient for getting around Kuala Lumpur and its suburbs.
– Komuter Trains: Operated by KTM, connecting KL with surrounding areas.
– Buses: MyRapid buses in cities, and long-distance buses for intercity travel.
b) Ride-Hailing services: Grab: Widely used for car, motorcycle, and taxi rides.
c) Taxis
– Metered Taxis: Available in cities, but ensure the meter is used.
– Airport Taxis: Available at all major airports.
d) Car Rentals
– Self-Drive: Ideal for exploring regions like the Cameron Highlands or coastal areas.
– With Driver: Available for more convenience.
Best places to visit in Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur
Highlights: Petronas Twin Towers, Batu Caves, Bukit Bintang, Chinatown, and Merdeka Square.
Best Things to Do: Admire the skyline from the Petronas Twin Towers, explore the Batu Caves, shop and dine in Bukit Bintang, and experience the vibrant street life in Chinatown.
Suggested Duration: 2-3 days.
Penang
Highlights: George Town, Penang Hill, Kek Lok Si Temple, Batu Ferringhi Beach.
Best Things to Do: Wander through the UNESCO World Heritage site of George Town with its street art and colonial architecture, enjoy panoramic views from Penang Hill, visit the majestic Kek Lok Si Temple, and relax on the beaches of Batu Ferringhi.
Suggested Duration: 2-3 days.
Langkawi
Highlights: Langkawi Sky Bridge, Pantai Cenang, Kilim Karst Geoforest Park, Eagle Square.
Best Things to Do: Walk the thrilling Langkawi Sky Bridge, sunbathe at Pantai Cenang, take a boat tour through the mangroves of Kilim Karst Geoforest Park, and visit the iconic Eagle Square.
Suggested Duration: 2-3 days.
Borneo (Sabah and Sarawak)
Highlights: Mount Kinabalu, Sipadan Island, Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, Mulu Caves.
Best Things to Do: Climb Mount Kinabalu, dive in the world-renowned Sipadan Island, observe orangutans in Sepilok, and explore the vast Mulu Caves.
Suggested Duration: 4-5 days (Sabah), 3-4 days (Sarawak).
The Perhentian Islands
Highlights: Long Beach, Turtle Sanctuary Beach, Perhentian Kecil, Perhentian Besar.
Best Things to Do: Snorkel or dive in crystal-clear waters, relax on Long Beach, and enjoy the vibrant marine life around Perhentian Kecil and Perhentian Besar.
Suggested Duration: 3-4 days.
Cameron Highlands
Highlights: Tea Plantations, Mossy Forest, Strawberry Farms, Butterfly Garden.
Best Things to Do: Tour the lush tea plantations, hike through the Mossy Forest, pick fresh strawberries, and visit the Butterfly Garden.
Suggested Duration: 2-3 days.
Melaka (Malacca)
Highlights: Jonker Street, A Famosa, St. Paul’s Hill, Melaka River.
Best Things to Do: Stroll down the historic Jonker Street, explore the remnants of the Portuguese fort A Famosa, climb St. Paul’s Hill, and take a scenic boat ride along the Melaka River.
Suggested Duration: 1-2 days.
Tioman Island
Highlights: Juara Beach, Asah Waterfall, Marine Park.
Best Things to Do: Relax on Juara Beach, trek to Asah Waterfall, and dive or snorkel in the protected Marine Park.
Suggested Duration: 3-4 days.
Ipoh
Highlights: Kek Lok Tong Cave Temple, Concubine Lane, Ipoh Railway Station.
Best Things to Do: Visit the stunning Kek Lok Tong Cave Temple, explore the heritage buildings and street art of Concubine Lane, and marvel at the architecture of the Ipoh Railway Station.
Suggested Duration: 1-2 days.
Johor Bahru
Highlights: Legoland Malaysia, Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque, Johor Bahru City Square.
Best Things to Do: Spend a fun day at Legoland Malaysia, visit the Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque, and shop at Johor Bahru City Square.
Suggested Duration: 1-2 days.
I hope you enjoyed this blog. I would be sharing detailed guides of all the places I visited during my time in Malaysia for you to plan efficiently and effectively.
Would be updating this starter guide as and when I receive new information for you guys to always stay updated. My time in Malaysia has to be one of the most beautiful moments in my life and I can’t wait to go back. Until then.
Love,
Rituparna
Checkout the other starter guides here ⬇️
Nice place. Look forward to visiting it soon.
You should definitely visit soon and save visa costs too ✌️