From magnificent beaches, virgin rainforests and underwater kingdoms to historical monuments, high-tech skyscrapers and traditional villages, Malaysia offers a breathtaking range of attractions for visitors to explore. See Kuala Lumpur from the Petronas Towers, climb the steps to the pilgrimage site of Batu Caves or just laze on Cenang beach in Langkawi, where the temperature never strays far from 30 degrees.
Facts at a glance
- Flight times from the UK
- Average flight time is 13 hours
- Time difference
- GMT +8 hours
- Peak season
- All year round
One of the wealthiest and most culturally diverse countries in Southeast Asia, Malaysia is made up of two regions, separated by the South China Sea: Peninsular Malaysia, where the bulk of the population lives, and the states of Sabah and Sarawak on the island of Borneo. Its cuisine, architecture and spiritual life have developed under the influence of the indigenous peoples and Malays, who make up half of the population, as well as the Chinese, Indians and Europeans who came ashore here to find their fortunes. The rice and noodles served with every meal might make Malaysian dishes resemble those of her Asian neighbours, but it's the extra local ingredients that make Malay food such as laksa, satay and rendang so unique.
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Create a tailor-made multi-centre holiday in Malaysia
Our team of travel consultants will be happy to tailor make a holiday that takes in more than one resort in Malaysia, so that you can really experience the country. Or with so much to see in Southeast Asia, why not combine your holiday in Malaysia with another of our fascinating countries?
View some of our Suggested Itineraries, or speak to a specialist about a bespoke luxury holiday that is tailored to you.
Recommended highlights
The following experiences are possible from Malaysia. Talk to our expert travel consultants about how to make your holiday extra special:
Visit the Wildman Of Borneo in a Sandakan Jungle Adventure
Fancy coming face to face with the famed Wildman of Borneo? Meet this remarkable creature in its natural habitat as they learn to survive once more in the teeming jungles of Borneo. A raised wooden walkway takes you to the observation deck where Orang Utans slowly emerge from the rainforest to be fed by rangers. Take in panoramic views of Sandakan from the magnificently adorned Buddhist temple, Puh Jih Shih. After a leisurely lunch in the park, why not continue your adventures by exploring the water villages.
Scale the Heights and Depths of Malaysia by Cable Car and Underwater World
Experience two of Langkawi's greatest attractions - the Langkawi Cable Car and Underwater World. You should drop into the Oriental Village for some duty-free shopping before riding on the cable car 708m above sea level up Gunung Mat Cincang, for panoramic views of Langkawi's islands. Next, come face to face with Giant Groupers, Sharks, Moray Eels and other schools of fishes in Malaysia's largest aquarium. Here you will also see 3 ecosystems at large - the Tropical Rainforest, the Temperate and Sub-Antarctic World.
Discover a Historical and Cultural Awakening of Penang City
Discover the heritage of Penang by exploring the any and varied places of interest of this significant city. Why not start with a Photo-stop at Fort Cornwallis where Capt. Francis Light first landed; walk along the Chew Jetty - an old Chinese waterfront settlement; visit the majestic and ornate Khoo Clan Ancestral House; and the massive Reclining Buddha Temple. If that wasn't enough culture for you - proceed to the Royal Selangor Pewter to see the art of pewter craftsmanship before escaping from the hustle and bustle of city life to the tranquil and green surroundings of the Botanical Gardens where you may see the wild monkeys.
