8 Ways to See Malaysia Differently
The brochures may highlight the exotic and exciting tourist activities this nation offers, but if you’re someone who prefers to stray from the crowds, you might be inclined to explore the road less traveled. Whether it is the towering heights of Kuala Lumpur, or awe-inspiring Batu caves, or be it the various adventure parks, absolutely nothing comes close to the earthly Asian experience that you would love to soak your spirit in. Stay for a bit more, and you will discover an entire universe of possibilities in Malaysia.
Considering that you’ll likely visit the popular attractions, I’ve curated some additional places and experiences that you can easily combine with those. I assure you that these lesser-known attractions will elevate your holiday in Malaysia to an extraordinary level!
Offbeat Kuala Lumpur
1. SEE THE FIREFLIES OF KUALA SELANGOR
Image by KIWI CHEN from Pixabay
The quiet town of Kuantan houses one of the largest firefly colonies in the world. Take an overnight trip from Kuala Lumpur to this village, to experience the most magical moments of your life. The trees come alive with twinkling lights as soon as the dusk settles in.
How to reach: 67.5 km from Kuala Lumpur
2. TAKE A HERITAGE WALK IN IPOH
With colonial architecture of amazing beauty, a walk around this old town will reveal cute surprises around each corner. This one
is surely for those who like to stroll away the streets to soak in the culture. Some scrumptious food is also on the cards in this food lovers’ paradise.
How to reach: 198.7 km from Kuala Lumpur
3. EXPERIENCE THE TROPICAL RAIN-FOREST OF MALAYSIA IN TAMAN NEGARA
Image by Nile from Pixabay
Pull yourself away from the urban world, and head to this national park of outstanding natural beauty. Visiting this part of Malaysia is equivalent to surrendering oneself to nature; think hiking, rock climbing, fishing, jungle trekking and much more.
How to reach: 236.8 km from Kuala Lumpur
Offbeat Penang
4. SEE THE VARIOUS VIPERS AT PENANG SNAKE TEMPLE
The only one of its kind in the world, this temple is chock full of a variety of pit vipers. The temple was built in honour of a human deity, and is now famous for its snakes that are believed to be harmless, but the visitors are still warned against getting too close to these.
How to reach: 9.5 km from Penang International Airport
5. GIVE YOURSELF A NIGHT IN GEORGETOWN
Image by Nicolas Lannuzel from Flickrr
This one is not to be missed at any cost, for the love of nightlife and scenic night views in this part of the country. Another big
attraction is the streets buzzing with umpteen local food hawkers serving fresh seafood. In case, you feel spoilt for choice and can’t decide, let the aromatic pull choose for you.
How to reach: 16 km from Penang International Airport
Offbeat Putrajaya
6. TAKE A CYCLING TOUR OF PUTRAJAYA
Image by Katie King from Pixabay
The green, peaceful, quiet and clean city needs to be seen in the most eco-friendly way. If you’ve always dreamt of riding down the streets on your bike, this is the place for you. Putrajaya has bicycle tracks laid out in almost all parts of the city, and I am sure that you would love to take in the picturesque scenery riding past the lakes, under the shade of tropical trees.
How to reach: 32.9 km from Kuala Lumpur
7. VISIT THE HISTORIC TOWN OF MALACCA
Image by Sharon Ang from Pixabay
You might have to go slightly off the track, but it’s worth it. An alluring blend of architecture influenced by its various rulers, including Portuguese, Dutch, and English styles, this quaint town leaves a lasting impression on every visitor. Cobbled narrow streets, ornate buildings and a storybook-like setting have won the town, the stature of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On your way from Putrajaya to Malacca you will get to catch a glimpse of the Malaysian countryside.
How to reach: 130.2 km from Putrajaya
How To Do Langkawi Differently
8. SIGN UP FOR EAGLE WATCHING IN LANGKAWI MANGROVE FOREST
Watch one of nature’s most amazing wonders in the form of magnificent mangroves and limestone ridges found in these jungles. Also watch three rare and protected species of eagles feed, nest and breed here. In case you are interested in bats, do visit the caves inhabited by these creatures.
How to reach: 12.2 km from Langkawi Islands
How To Do Kuching Differently
Much of Malaysia’s beauty remains undiscovered by the tourism industry, so you won’t typically find these places on a standard itinerary. However, the adventurous traveler in you always seeks out the authentic and untouched side of a country. I hope this collection will help you achieve just that and have a truly immersive experience in Malaysia. If you have any suggestions, please leave them in the comments below.