Malaysia
Malaysia 🇲🇾
Welcome to your guide to enchanting Malaysia! This diverse country in Southeast Asia will surprise you with dynamic cities, lush rainforests, paradisiacal beaches and a rich cultural heritage.
Malaysia is a melting pot of cultures. Here Malaysians, Chinese, Indians and many other ethnic groups live together, resulting in a rich variety of traditions, festivals and varied cuisine. From savory laksa to fragrant nasi lemak and authentic dim sum, every meal is a culinary voyage of discovery. Street markets, such as those in Penang and Kuala Lumpur, are a foodie’s paradise.
Malaysia’s natural beauty is impressive. The country is home to some of the oldest rainforests in the world, such as Taman Negara, where you can hike under dense foliage and spot exotic animals. The Cameron Highlands offer a cool escape with tea plantations and misty mountains. And then there are the paradise islands, such as Langkawi and the Perhentian Islands, known for their crystal clear waters and colorful coral reefs, perfect for snorkeling and diving. For adventurers, Malaysia offers numerous opportunities. From climbing Mount Kinabalu in Borneo to exploring the caves of Mulu National Park, there is always something new and exciting to experience. The rainforests are perfect for trekking and wildlife spotting, while the coastlines are ideal for water sports.
Malaysia’s rich history is felt everywhere. In cities such as Melaka and George Town in Penang, walk through streets full of history. Colonial buildings, ancient temples and colorful street art tell the story of a country of many influences. Besides historical charm, Malaysia also has modern, vibrant cities. Kuala Lumpur, the capital, offers a mix of old and new. Here you will admire the iconic Petronas Twin Towers, visit luxury shopping malls and enjoy a vibrant nightlife.
Capital
Kuala Lumpur
Language
Bahasa Melayu
Time difference
Summer time 6h, winter time 7h
Currency
Malaysian Ringgit
The ideal itinerary through Malaysia
Ready for an unforgettable adventure through Malaysia? Discover our carefully crafted itinerary that takes you to the most fascinating sights of this beautiful country. Start your journey with the colonial charm and historical monuments, dive into the vibrant atmosphere of dynamic cities, and explore the rich cultural diversity. Sample delectable local dishes and experience the unique flavors Malaysia has to offer. Prepare for a journey full of discovery and surprise in the heart of Southeast Asia.
Malaysia has a tropical climate with high temperatures and humidity year-round. The best travel time varies by region: for West Malaysia (including Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Langkawi), the period from November to February is best, as it is drier. East Malaysia (such as the Perhentian Islands) is best visited from March to September, when there is less rain. The monsoon seasons bring short, heavy rains: from May to October in the west and from October to February in the east.
Public transportation in Malaysia offers an authentic and efficient way to explore the country, with a wide range of options such as buses, trains and the iconic tuk-tuks in certain cities. For urban travel, there are extensive bus networks and modern city lanes such as the LRT and MRT in Kuala Lumpur. For longer distances, trains such as the KTM Intercity and ETS are a scenic and comfortable choice. The famous train ride from Kuala Lumpur to Penang, for example, offers scenic views. Apps such as 12go.asia and Rome2Rio are useful for planning your trip. In addition, private cab services and apps like Grab offer convenient and reliable transportation options throughout the country.
Malaysian cuisine is a delicious symphony of flavors, influenced by Chinese, Indian and indigenous Malaysian culinary traditions. Be sure to try the national favorite, nasi lemak, a dish consisting of rice cooked in coconut milk, served with sambal, anchovies, peanuts and boiled egg. Another must-try is rendang, a rich, spicy stew made from beef and spices. Along the coast, you can enjoy a variety of seafood, perfectly grilled with local spices. For a sweet ending, cendol is a popular Malaysian dessert made from coconut milk, green rice flour jelly and palm sugar.
Malaysia has a wealth of cultural festivities that are celebrated throughout the year. Chinese New Year, which usually falls in January or February, is celebrated lavishly with dragon dances and fireworks. Hari Raya Aidilfitri, which marks the end of Ramadan, is an important Islamic holiday celebrated with elaborate meals and family visits. Deepavali, the Hindu festival of light, is celebrated in October or November with colorful lights and traditional dishes. The country can be busier during these periods, so it is wise to make your travel plans early.