Malaysia is one of the most visited countries in Asia. It is a favorite destination for men and women across the globe. There are so many different languages, cuisines, cultures, and people in Malaysia. A lot of adventures and exciting city life is what you should be ready to experience while you backpack Malaysia.
Are you a backpacker looking to explore Malaysia? To backpack Malaysia it can be super affordable if you are prepared and do it right. Here are the best places to go in Malaysia:
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Places to visit while you Backpack Malaysia
Langkawi
A small duty-free island off the coast of Malaysia and Thailand. This island is well known for being full of outdoor adventure and wildlife. As you drive the roads on your scooter you will encounter 1000’s of monkeys and breathtaking views. From waterfalls to abandon mountain resorts it really has something for every adventurer. That’s what makes this a great stop while you backpack Malaysia.
Best Places to visit in Langkawi
- D’Coconut Hill Resort – This abandon 6-star resort has many eerie stories if you read the reviews on it. With it being very high up in the mountains the resort often is floating in the clouds during the early mornings and late evenings. Really a very cool experience if urban exploring is something you are interested in. This is the best spot for sunrise on the whole island.
- Langkawi night markets – Malaysia is known for having some of the best food in Asia, this is especially true in Langkawi. Every night they have a different night market so make sure to visit as many as you can. Each one gives you a completely different feel and is truly unique. Its something you shouldn’t miss on your Malaysia trip
- Glass bottom bridge – One of the main attractions on the island is the glass-bottom bridge. Suspended over the mountain face and overlooking the whole island you really can’t get a better view than from here.
Port Dickson
Reach the Port Dickson town in Malaysia to start off with an amazing experience. There are so many places to visit in Port Dickson. Here are some of the best ones:
Best Places to visit in Port Dickson
- Blue Lagoon Beach– Visit the Blue Lagoon beach which is one of the most beautiful beaches in Malaysia. It is 17kms to the south of Port Dickson. It’s full of watersports and relaxation.
- 9 wonders of Port Dickson– You can also visit the adventure park called ‘9 wonders of Port Dickson’. This is favorited by kids and animal lovers.
- Cape Rachado lighthouse– It is also called Tanjung Tuan in Malay. It is located in Alor Gajah District. This is the oldest lighthouse in the country that was built during the Portuguese rule in Malaysia.
Melaka
Are you a solo Backpacker in Malaysia? Then Melaka is for you. It is to the south of Port Dickson. Here are the most amazing places to visit in Melaka
Best Places to visit in Melaka
- Melaka Wonderland- A water theme park that is for family, kids and anyone who loves adventure. As a solo backpacker, this is such a refreshing place for you!
- A Famosa- A beautiful leisure resort in Malaysia that has so many adventure water sports in A Famosa. It is a great place to unleash your crazy adventure desires.
- Jonker Walk- As a solo traveler, you must walk these vibrant streets during the night. So many food stalls, live music bands, artifact, and clothes shops adorn the roads. This is a perfect party place in Melaka and sits right on the canal.
Cherating
This resort town is located on the east coast of Malaysia. Cherating is a place that experiences rainfall in November and December. If you are planning to go during these months, make sure you carry your monsoon stuff along with you.
Best Places to visit in Cherating
- Chendor beach- This beach is a breeding site for sea turtles. There is a Chendor Turtle Sanctuary also in Chendor beach that is worth visiting. You can also try Yachting, Kayaking, and Surfing in Chendor beach.
- Charah Cave- A hidden jewel called Gua Charah have massive eight caves. Gua Buddha is one of them and it has a long reclining Buddha. Each cave here is unique and has something that gives you that blissful feeling you longed for while you backpack Malaysia.
- Sungai Lembing- This is called ‘The Town That Time Forgot’. Among the hills is a small hamlet known as Sungai Lembing. You can visit the Mining Museum and understand the history behind this place.
- Traditional classes- Learn how to fly traditional kites, make wood carvings and the art of batik painting in the village of Cherating.
Jerantut
If you plan to go to Jerantut, then make sure you stay here for a day or two rather than just a day trip. It has so many attractions nearby.
Best Places to visit in Jerantut
- Taman Negara- Jerantut is situated very close to Taman Negara. This is a national park that is 130 million years old. Trek through the forest for an amazing experience.
- Kem Nusa- There is an Eco-park in Kem Nusa forest. You must camp here for a night to get the jungle experience in Malaysia.
- Jerantut- Kota Gelanggi Caves- These caves are 20 km from Jerantut town. Start exploring the caves in the morning and lose yourself in the beautiful caves of Kota Gelanggi.
- Tekai Lake- Looking for a lazy day out? Then, go to Tekai lake and unwind all the travel tiredness.
Kota Bharu
The next place you must visit from Jerantut is Kota Bharu. You can take the jungle railway from Jerantut to Kota Bharu.
Best Places to visit in Kota Bharu
- Istana Jahar- One of the best places to visit in Kota Bharu include Istana Jahar. This is a museum and has some amazing collections.
- .Temenggor Lake- Temenggor Lake is located in Hulu Perak District. The whole of Perhentian island is such an adorable beauty. Awaken the seafood lover inside you at this island.
- Kuala Terengganu- Move to the southeast to Kuala Terengganu and Kuantan. Kuala Terengganu has islands Redang and Lang Tengah. These are a must-visit when in Kota Bharu.
**Bonus – If you are a food lover make sure you add Penang to your list it is an absolute food paradise.**
Tioaman Island
A popular stop while you backpack Malaysia is Tioaman Island. Numerous corals, dive sites and famous history of shipwrecks are what you will experience is Tioaman Island. You can relax by the sea, go hiking in the rainforests of the island and enjoy delicious seafood on this island. You can also choose to do rock climbing on the cliff. If you want to stay at an amazing place, choose the Melina Beach Resort. It is rated high and has a view you will carry in your memory, forever.
Best Places to visit in Tioaman Island
- Paya Beach- Relax by the beach and enjoy the best spas on this beach. Enjoy the best of beach views in the golden sands of Paya Beach.
- Genting Village- A traditional Malaysian village which is one of the most beautiful places in Tioman Island. Meet the fisherman, spend some time with them to understand the culture of this place.
- Asah Waterfall- It is also called Mukut waterfalls. You can trek through the jungle to reach this amazing waterfall. Experience the stunning flora and fauna in this region.
- Juara Beach- The best surf spot in Tioman village is at Juara. There are some famous cafes and bars also in this region. Try out local dishes and relax by the beach to some beautiful views.
Kuala Lumpur
Last but not least, explore Kuala Lumpur, the capital city of Malaysia. High rise buildings, expats everywhere and friendly local people is a hint that you are in Kuala Lumpur. Petronas Towers and Batu Caves are examples of best places in KL. Weather you’re a solo female traveler or traveling with a group there are tons to do when you backpack Malaysia.
Here is a list of places you must when in Kuala Lumpur:
Places to visit in Kuala Lumpur
- Petronas Twin Tower – Also called the Twin Jewels of Kuala Lumpur, anyone who visits KL must visit this Tower. It is located in the city center of Kuala Lumpur.
- Menara Tower- This is located in Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve. At a height of 421 meters, this is the fifth tallest structure in the world.
- Chinatown- You love shopping and can bargain? Then, this place is for you. Chinatown never sleeps. You can get lovely artifacts, clothes, jewels and Chinese herbs in this place.
- Batu Caves- This 400 million- year old limestone hill in KL has a temple that is 100 years old. The Hindu deity, Murugan is worshipped here. During the times of celebration like Thaipusam, this place is filled with devotees and is a sight to watch.
- Sunway Lagoon Theme Park– This theme park has water slides, manmade ‘river’ ride, wave pool, 360-degree revolving pirate ship, and surf beach. Enjoyment is at the next level in this place.
- Jalan Alor– This is a row of Chinese seafood restaurants. You will find tables and chairs on the sides of the road and smell amazing meat, deserts, and noodles. It is all at an affordable rate.
- Aquaria- This is the home of 150 species of marine creatures. There are so many corals and sea creatures you will love to see. It is in one of the levels of Convention Centre in KL.
- Perdana Botanical Gardens- This garden has the largest collection of flowers and animals in the city of KL. It was called the Lake Gardens initially. There are man-made fountains, 800 species of orchids and pergola.
**If you still have extra time don’t miss out on Kuching. It’s full of amazing Instagramable places and has tons to do.**
You can either visit Kuala Lumpur first or keep it for the last. Whatever it may be, Malaysia is one of the top-rated backpacker destinations in the world. Is this your first trip to Malaysia? Check out the beginner’s guide to Malaysia by Divert Living and get the best ideas for yourself.
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