With the upcoming Merdeka and the 4-day weekend, you have all the more reason to get outside of your comfort zone and travel more. Well, why not start within Malaysia itself? There are plenty of beautiful places in our country, as proven by the countless snapshots on Instagram. We’ve compiled 20 of them to inspire you to travel this upcoming Merdeka and who knows, perhaps you’d have the opportunity to snap a few memories of your own too.
1. Cameron Highlands
Cameron Highlands and its rolling hills is an escape for KL-ites, what with its cool breeze and tea and fruit plantations. You’ll feel at peace as you admire the stunning bright green backdrop of Cameron Highlands whilst you bask under the sunlight.
2. Mabul Island
As compared to the likes of Perhentian and Sipadan, Mabul Island is lesser known but it should in fact be the word on everyone’s lips when it comes to an island with clear blue waters. This island which is situated off the coast of Sabah was a fishing village 4 decades ago but is now popular amongst those who enjoy outdoor water activities.
3. Kek Lok Si Temple
You can’t help but be in awe of Kek Lok Si temple’s stunning architecture while you’re here. The pagoda itself is comprised of 3 different architectural styles (Burmese, Thai and Chinese) and besides being a place of worship for the Buddhists, is also a tourist attraction in Penang.
4. Mount Kinabalu
The sight at the peak of Mount Kinabalu is said to be breathtaking (and not just because you’re at such a height!) Hikers would come prepared to trek all the way to the summit, just before sunrise and marvel at the beauty of God’s creation.
5. KLCC Park
Right in the heart of KL is the iconic KLCC park with its lush greeneries and beautiful lake. It’s interesting that in the hustle and bustle of city life, there’s one place that you can come to just to clear your mind. It’s also an ideal picnic spot if you want an alternative dining experience. We know that KL has plenty of restaurants but trust us, this will be a ‘dining’ experience you likely won’t forget.
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6. Tinggi Island
Tinggi Island could perhaps be Johor’s best kept secret. Like Mabul, it is a lesser known island in Malaysia but is definitely not lesser in comparison to our other islands. With only 500 villagers living on this island, this also makes it one of the quieter islands in Malaysia with a small population.
7. Bako National Park
What makes Bako all the more special is the fact that it opened the same year that Malaysia gained its independence. Bako is home to wildlife, flora and fauna and is known to have a few well-marked trails suited for leisurely strolls as well as hikes.
8. Gunung Mulu National Park
Gunung Mulu is very much deserving of its UNESCO World Heritage title and you would know why as soon as you step foot here. It’s the perfect getaway from the busy lifestyle in KL and you can trek around the Borneo rainforest while you’re here.
9. Malacca Straits Mosque
There’s nothing quite like the Malaccan mosque which is situated on the man-made Malaccan Island. When photographed at a certain angle, it looks almost as if the mosque is floating on the surface of the water. There’s a covered bridge leading towards the mosque which is positioned on top of strong pillars.
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10. Pangkor Island
Pangkor Island needs no introduction and it is one of the most visited islands in Malaysia for a reason. If you’re up for it, this island is home to plenty of activities such as banana boat rides and snorkeling. You can even enjoy a fishing trip here for an alternative getaway experience.
11. Mount Jerai
Mount Jerai is the highest peak in Kedah and it’s the backdrop to the iconic vast Kedah paddy fields. Among some of the activities you can enjoy while you’re in the Mount Jerai area are hiking to the waterfalls, setting up a picnic and camping outdoors.
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12. Jubakar
Nope, this is not the land which Chewbacca inhabits. This kampong in Kelantan is in fact famous for the Jubakar beach which becomes the setting for many a photo shoot. In fact, if you search up the Jubakar hashtag on Instagram, the results would include plenty of shots from this very beach.
13. Kapas Island
Instead of popular islands like Pulau Redang and Pulau Perhentian, you should grab a ticket and head over to Pulau Kapas as this place is pretty secluded and peaceful so you get to enjoy your snorkeling in peace and quiet. As the water is clear, you will be able to spot marine life easily too.
14. Cape Rachado Lighthouse
Many would end up at the Cape Rachado Lighthouse after completing their hike. In fact, most would plan out an entire day out here to hike, enjoy the view from the lighthouse and finally head to the beach for a nice picnic.
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15. Timah Tasoh Lake
Mention Timah Tasoh Lake and any Perlis native would say that it’s one of their best kept secrets. Some of the activities you can enjoy while here is spending time by the lake itself as well as heading to the fruit orchard. One of the fruits you’ve totally got to try when it’s in season is the Harumanis mango fruit wherein a kilo of this fruit can be priced up to RM20.
16. Dutch Square, Malacca
Step back in time when you’re at the Malaccan Dutch Square where the entire area is painted in a bright vivid red shade. The Stadhuys area used to be the place of residence for Dutch officials but it is now a tourist location. Despite having been around for centuries, it’s clear that the Dutch Square area is very well-maintained and still looks as picturesque even with time.
17. Penang City Hall
The Penang City Hall is an all-white building which happens to be a World Heritage Site and was even used as a setting for one of the scenes in the iconic movie, Anna and the King.
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18. Kundasang
If you’re hoping to escape the heat, one of the few places you could do so in Malaysia are the Highlands area and also Kundasang, Sabah. Here, you can inhale crisp, clean air each morning as you wake up and there’s also plenty of activities here such as heading to the Desa Dairy Farm to enjoy some freshly made ice cream.
19. Batu Caves
If you’re up for it, consider climbing the stairs at Batu Caves all the way to the top, as countless do every single day. It’s a humbling experience and you’ll also be at a vantage point to enjoy the scenery below. Batu Caves is one of the more iconic places of worship for Hindus, besides the shrines in India.
20. Bukit Katak
Frog Hill is a place where you will find plenty of ponds that are clear and turquoise green. Many often take great photos or bathe in these ponds. When heading here, be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes as the area tends to be a little muddy. Still, it is worth the trek to see these scenic places in person.
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Feature Image Credit: @adibizhar, @jasonlee94
