Five days is an ideal amount of time to see the highlights of this Southeast Asian nation, or at the very least, those of peninsular Malaysia. A destination that is rich in diversity and wonderful places to visit, Malaysia makes you want to return time and time again to discover its secrets. A nation with a fascinating history, it has a lot to offer, from beautiful beaches and a lively capital to some of the best food in the world and so much more. Hi
This is why planning a trip to Malaysia can be challenging – there are so many fantastic places to visit and so many factors to consider. The good news is that there are several transportation options at your disposal, and you can travel to Malaysia from Singapore by bus, car, or ferry.
While five days is adequate for a tour through Malaysia, it is insufficient time to explore the country and uncover its wonders. That is why you must carefully plan your route or excursion to make the best use of your time. On that topic, let us walk you through our top six Malaysian holiday destinations.
KUALA LUMPUR
If you are traveling to Malaysia. If you travel to Malaysia by bus from Singapore, you will most likely land in Kuala Lumpur, the country’s capital. It will most likely be the starting and ending point of your tour, as most modes of transportation are extensively available in this city. Kuala Lumpur is a great place to get a sense of Malaysian culture, because it reflects a sense of its mixed colonial and Asian heritage.
The iconic Petronas Twin Towers can be found in the modern heart of the city, the Kuala Lumpur City Centre. Purchase a ticket and visit the top of the viewing platform for a breathtaking view of the city skyline. Tour and enjoy the modern shopping malls before sampling Malaysian cuisine at Jalan Alor, one of the city’s busiest night markets.
However, if you prefer to learn about the city’s rich culture and heritage rather than its modern attractions, start with a visit to the National Museum. Then take a stroll through the busy Chinatown streets, shop at the central market stalls, and admire the colonial architecture at Merdeka Square. In the evening, you can visit the temples, Hindu shrines, and statues at Batu Caves for a more spiritual experience.
Malacca
When you arrive in Malacca, one of Malaysia’s most historical cities, you can immediately see how it evolved from a small fishing village to a Portuguese, Dutch, and finally, British trading port. If you plan on visiting this cultural highlight, travelling to Malaysia from Singapore by bus is highly recommended, as it is the most comfortable and economical option.
Once in Malacca, you can visit the ruins of old churches and ports, as well as the site declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This site includes several of the city’s old streets, in particular the famous Jonker Street. This street is famous for its huge street market, with local vendors offering everything from antiques and textiles to handicrafts. You can take a cruise, spend the night by the river and then taste Malaca specialties in one of the many restaurants overlooking the water.
GENTING HIGHLANDS
If you’ve ever thought about visiting a resort on top of a hill, whipped by the wind and covered in clouds, Genting Highlands is the ideal destination. Genting Highlands, perched on top of Mount Ulu Kali, is an integrated resort with hotels, casinos, shopping malls and the Skyworlds theme park.
On clear days, you can enjoy a cool and quiet atmosphere while admiring the breathtaking view of the lush rainforest valleys that stretch towards Kuala Lumpur. From natural wonders and rustic villages to retreats in private homes and culinary attractions, the valley surrounding Genting also has numerous tourist attractions.
Genting, a holiday destination that offers one of the most luxurious holiday experiences in Malaysia, attracts both national and foreign tourists. Visitors flock to this hilltop resort year after year, eager to experience one of the best mountain resorts in the world.
IPOH
Ipoh, Malaysia’s fourth largest city, is known for its excellent restaurants, street vendors, and delicious local cuisine. The city is a gateway to the Cameron Highlands and is strategically placed between Kuala Lumpur and Penang. If you intend to visit, the most comfortable and cost-effective mode of transportation is by bus from Singapore to Malaysia. It is less busy than other areas of Malaysia, making it a great stop on your journey. Ipoh is a culinary and cultural pleasure, with busy markets and lanes filled with street art that display the legacy of British colonial authority through its architecture.
CAMERON HIGHLANDS
Cameron Highlands is a hilly region in Malaysia’s Pahang state, with stunning natural beauty and a thriving tea and vegetable industry. The higher elevation of the area keeps it refreshingly cool compared to the humid conditions in the country’s coastal areas. If you want to visit here, travelling to Malaysia from Singapore by bus is the most cost-effective and comfortable option. As there are no direct buses from Singapore to Cameron Highlands, you must first travel to Kuala Lumpur and then take a bus to Cameron Highlands from there. The destination provides an excellent opportunity to experience the distinct blend of colonial British and authentic Malay culture.
Known for its dense jungle and vast green tea plantations, the Cameron Highlands are ideal for hiking and discovering an abundance of fauna and wildlife. You can spend your time mountain climbing, hiking through the jungle, visiting various plantations, or simply touring the area.
PENANG
Penang is a stunningly unique and historically significant location created by the fusion of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Western cultures. The UNESCO World Heritage Site that encompasses the old Georgetown streets best represents its diversity. You can spend your time walking through the roadways, admiring the colourful street art and murals while sampling the various street foods available around every corner. Visiting the Clan Jetties gives you the opportunity to experience authentic Chinese culture while learning about the multicultural influences that shaped Penang.
You can also see a panoramic view of the island by climbing to the top of Penang Hill. If you don’t want to walk, you can take the funicular to the summit. Kek Lok Si, one of Malaysia’s largest Buddhist temples, can be another stop on your journey.