Image credit: ShutterstockMalaysia is one of the most famous spots for travellers who love the sand and the sea. While it’s best known for the pearl-white sand beaches of Langkawi and the majestic peak of Mount Kinabalu, the nation is also home to another exciting landscape feature that draws adventure seekers and nature lovers alike — its caves. From the world-renowned Batu Caves to the Sarawak Chamber of Gunung Mulu National Park (the largest cave chamber in the world), get in touch with your inner spelunker while exploring the magnificent caves in Malaysia.
These massive networks of interconnected systems enthral tourists with stunning arrangements of limestone stalagmites and stalactites sculpted over millennia. Caves in Malaysia are also home to the most unique flora and fauna, and some are even archaeological sites. Remnants of the prehistoric era have been discovered in Malaysian caves, like the ‘Perak Man’ (Southeast Asia’s oldest, most complete human skeleton) in Gua Gunung Runtuh of Lenggong Valley, and they have managed to preserve centuries of ancient history, local culture and native wildlife within their walls. They are truly fascinating sights as the caves manage to entwine the beauty of natural marvels and the cultural heritage of their surroundings.
Here are some of the best caves to explore in Malaysia:
Batu Caves
Image credit: ShutterstockThese world-famous caves are located in Gombak, in the State of Selangor. One of the most iconic tourist attractions in Malaysia, Batu Caves showcases mogote topography, which is a limestone outcrop and includes a series of caves and cave temples.
With over 20 caves forming part of the Batu Caves, the biggest cave, the Temple Cave or Cathedral Cave, is dedicated to Lord Murugan and is a famous pilgrimage site for Tamil Hindus. You need to be dressed appropriately to visit this cave temple.
Besides it, the Dark Cave, Ramayana Cave and Cave Villa are significant sites, with tourists flocking here to see the beautiful paintings of the Ramayana Cave and Cave Villa, as well as the unique flora and fauna of the Dark Cave. The Dark Cave has two areas — one that houses rare plant species (around 269 types) and the other part of the cave that is engulfed in pitch darkness.
However, the most iconic aspect of the Batu Caves is a steep flight of 272 steps that leads to the entrance of Sri Subramaniar Swamy Temple, from where you get a breathtaking view of the grand, golden statue of Lord Murugan, towering at 140 feet (around 42.6 metres), and the surrounding areas. Learn more with our detailed guide to Batu Caves.
Tickets: Entry to the Cave Temple is free, but other caves, like the Ramayana Cave (RM 4.4/USD 0.95) and the Dark Cave (RM 35/USD 7), have an entrance fee.
How to reachBy air: Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport is 25 km away.
Byroad: The caves are 6 km from Gombok and 17 km from Kuala Lumpur city centre.
Image credit: ShutterstockOne of the four UNESCO Heritage Sites of Malaysia, Gunung Mulu National Park is home to some of the most stunning caves in the country. Located in Borneo Island’s Sarawak, the national park stands out for a 2,376 metre-tall sandstone structure called Gunung Mulu and other karst features sprawling across the Malaysian state. For the uninitiated, karst is a special type of landform that is created when bedrock dissolves. It is associated with soluble rock types, including limestone, gypsum and marble.
Tickets: The park has curated tour packages that take people on a guided journey. These packages require you to stay for at least a night or even longer. The price of the tour packages starts from RM 500 (USD 107).
How to reach: The only way to reach Gunung Mulu National Park is by flying directly to Mulu Airport, situated within the park. Miri Airport, Kuching International Airport and Kota Kinabalu International Airport have daily direct flights to Mulu Airport.
The Sarawak Chamber
Named the largest single cave chamber in the world by the Guinness World Records, the Sarawak Chamber is part of 295 km of explored caves in Gunung Mulu National Park. This cave stretches 600 metres in length, 415 metres in width and 80 metres in height. The only way to visit the Sarawak Chamber is through one-night camps organised by the park. However, this is an extreme adventure activity open only to people who are certified cave explorers and experienced swimmers. The cave has a volume of 12 million cubic metres and an unsupported roof of 300 metres.
Clearwater Cave
The park’s official website states that Gunung Mulu National Park is also home to the longest cave in Asia. Also known as Gua Air Jernih, the 107-km-long cave stands as a testament to Malaysia’s natural beauty. After navigating 200 steps through dense forest, trekkers reach the entrance of the cave, encompassing an underground river, plank walks, pathways and floating bridges.
The Wind Cave is also part of the Clearwater Cave System and has beautiful stalactites, stalagmites, flow rocks, helictites and rock corals. Travellers can explore these caves through guided tours.
Deer Cave
Past plank walks, peat swamps, alluvial flats, an ancient burial site and limestone formations lie the Deer Cave. One of the largest cave chambers in the world, it serves as a place for deer to shelter in. This is how it got its name — the local Penan and Berawan people call it Gua Payau or Gua Rasu (which translates into Deer Cave). Several bat species can be found inside the cave, with over a million of these animals residing here.
The main chamber is 174 metres wide and 122 metres high. A formation at its entrance shares a distinct similarity to the silhouette of the late US President Abraham Lincoln’s face, which can be easily spotted on guided tours. Another interesting feature of the cave is the Garden of Eden, a hole in the roof of the cave where green vegetation thrives.
Image credit: ShutterstockAnother cave to visit in Malaysia is found on Borneo Island, but this one is in Sabah’’s Kunak region. The Madai Cave is situated in the Madai-Baturong Forest Reserve. This limestone cave has archaeological and cultural significance and is home to swiftlets whose nests are considered an expensive delicacy. The local Ida’an community are the guardians of the cave and live right outside it, often going back and forth to the cave to harvest the nests. Traces of human inhabitation and ancient coffins can be found inside the cave, making it necessary for visitors to be accompanied by a guide. Travellers can find a guide through either the locals or a travel agent before planning a visit.
How to reachBy air: Tawau Airport is 65 km away.
By road: Kunak is 16 km away.
Gua Gunung Runtuh
Image credit: ShutterstockOne of the important archaeological sites of Malaysia, Gua Gunung Runtuh makes the Lenggong Valley in Perak a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While this cave is not as big as the others on this list, it holds great historical significance. It is the excavation site of the ‘Perak Man’, the oldest and most complete human skeleton found in Southeast Asia. However, visiting the Gua Gunung Runtuh caves is not easy, as it is not a proper tourist destination. Visitors need to get a permit and a guide from the Lenggong Archeological Museum.
How to reachBy air: Penang International Airport is 140 km from the Lenggong Valley.
By road: Ipoh is 75 km away.
Image credit: ShutterstockPart of UNESCO World Heritage Sites’ tentative list, the Niah Caves are an important archaeological site in the country. Located in Miri, Sarawak, these caves have been credited for preserving vital historical relics, such as wall paintings, boat-shaped wooden coffins and a 40,000-year-old Palaeolithic human skull. Besides these discoveries, the cave complex is also known for its intricate cave networks, limestone hills and lowland dipterocarp forests. Visitors won’t need a guide for these caves; the authorities have created routes they can follow.
Tickets: Starting from RM 10 (USD 2) for adults and RM 3 (USD 0.64) for children.
How to reachBy air: Miri Airport is 87 km away.
By road: Miri is 95 km away.
Perak Tong Cave Temple
Image credit: ShutterstockA popular pilgrimage site and tourist attraction around the city of Ipoh, Perak Tong Cave Temple has a grand 40-ft-tall Buddha statue sitting at its centre. The limestone cave has a high dome that branches off into hidden recesses and grottoes. The temple cave’s wall is adorned with beautiful murals depicting scenes from Chinese mythology and Buddhist scriptures. This cave is easy to visit, and people of all ages can come here. However, one must be dressed appropriately as it is a religious site.
Ticket: Entry to the temple is free.
How to reachBy air: Sultan Azlan Shah Airport is 13 km away.
By road: The cave is 6 km from Ipoh city centre.
Image credit: ShutterstockThe Gua Tempurung in Perak is one of the longest limestone caves in Peninsular Malaysia. Tucked away in the Kinta Valley Geopark, the cave has five grand domes that resemble coconut shells and showcase a diverse collection of stalagmites and stalactites as well as a 1.6-km-long river. This cave is great for beginners as they have guided tours that allow for easy exploration of this cave.
How to reachBy air: Sultan Azlan Shah Airport is 26 km away.
By road: Ipoh is 38 km away.
Image credit: ShutterstockA tin mine under British rule, this limestone cave in Perlis has transformed into a popular tourist site near Kaki Bukit. It is fairly easy to explore as walkways have been built within the cave, giving easy access to everyone. Visitors can spot the Sungai Perlis River flowing under the walkway. Gua Kelam has surreal rock formations throughout the cave, and the end opens into the Wang Tangga Valley.
Tickets: RM 1 (USD 0.21) is the entrance fee for adults and RM 0.50 (USD 0.11) for children.
How to reachBy air: Sultan Abdul Halim Airport is 80 km away.
By road: The cave is 700 m from the city centre of Kaki Bukit.
Hero and feature image credit: Shutterstock
Related: 12 Stunning Island Resorts In Malaysia To Add To Your Bucket ListFrequently Asked Questions (FAQs)– How many caves are there in Malaysia?
Malaysia has more than 100 caves, with Gunung Mulu National Park being home to some of the most beautiful and iconic ones. Thus, it is one of Malaysia’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
– Are the caves in Malaysia open to the public?
Several caves are open to the public. They are usually part of protected areas such as Kinta Valley Geopark, Niah National Park and Gunung Mulu National Park, or pilgrimage sites, like Batu Caves and Perak Tong Cave Temple.
– What are the most popular caves to visit in Malaysia?
The Sarawak Chamber, Clearwater Cave, Niah Caves and Batu Caves are among the most popular ones to visit.
– Are there any special cave activities in Malaysia?
You can explore the caves, swim in them and even camp overnight in some.
– What should I bring when visiting caves in Malaysia?
Although each cave has different requirements, it is best to have sturdy shoes that enable you to comfortably hike and explore.
– Are the caves suitable for children and elderly visitors?
Not all caves are suitable for children and the elderly.
– Can I take photographs inside the caves?
Yes, you can take photographs inside the caves. However, some of them are dark and have low light, which may hinder the taking of clear photographs.
Did you know that Tioman Island and its archipelago form a very large marine park that homes to amazing array of beautiful aquatic life?
Sounds amazing? I’m here to tell you that island offers even more than that for a perfect island getaway!
The best part is, almost all resorts and hotels on the island come with exceptional snorkelling trip, diving and jungle trekking to bring you closer to nature.
But due to the monsoon season which falls between November and March every year, some resorts are closed within the period.
So, do check for the availability while planning your trip.
Now, let’s move on discover the best resort and hotel on Tioman Island!
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13 Best Tioman Resort & Hotel
1. Japamala Resort by Samadhi
Japamala Resort boasts 13 rooms hidden amidst the lush tropical rainforest. They blend with nature so perfectly.
Whether you enjoy staying in treetop chalets, sea cliff chalets or penghulu’s house with beach at doorstep, this resort offers you all of them!
Besides, all rooms meticulously designed just to offer you urban comfort at its finest!
Hillside room requires stairclimbing. Not suitable for elderly.
Jungle sarang rooms are quieter and easier to access.
Bring enough cash as no ATM provided on the island.
Japamala provides speedboat to the resort.
There isn’t any place to eat within walking distance.
Feel free to borrow movies disc from the counter or borrow books from library.
Extra bed can only be put in Jungle Luxe Sarang category and above.
2. 1511 Coconut Grove
Located at the east of Juara Village, 1511 Coconut Grove serves tops the list of accommodations in the village.
The traditional architecture chalets are set against the unspoiled paradise and many guests are amazed by how quaint and clean the chalets were. Best of all, they are only a few steps away from the stunning beach!
Rooms that are near to the counter bar have stronger Wi-Fi.
For quieter rooms, take the rooms away from the bar.
Free breakfast is provided.
PayPal is accepted here.
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3. Tunamaya Beach & Spa Resort Tioman Island
Featuring outstanding villas ranging from sea views, garden views to rainforest views, this boutique Tioman island resort offers private beach where rich marine life is just a few feet away!
With tranquillity and serenity of the island, you can even enjoy the nature ambience and discover the amazing underwater sights at ease.
During the stay, always remember to drop by the nearby village, Tekek for duty free shopping!
Price Starting From: RM730 @ SGD$221 (exclude hotel tax & service fee)
Tunamaya Beach & Spa Resort Tioman Island Highlight:
Infinity pool
Family villa
Dive centre
Penawaa Restaurant
Bar / Longue
Sarang Spa
Free Wi-Fi
Games room
Good To Know:
Rainforest villa offers a quieter environment. But the Wi-Fi signal is weaker here.
Rooms at the front have a better sea view.
If you don’t want to walk so much, go for rooms closer to the lobby.
Inform the resort of your arrival to ensure getting on the speedboat.
Alcohol is not allowed at the restaurant.
Free water is available here.
There is a jungle walk at the back of the resort where great wildlife can be seen. But the steps are quite steep and lots of mosquitoes around.
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4. Minang Cove Resort & Spa
Nestled between lush rainforest, Minang Cove Resort & Spa boasts 2 elegant villas and 12 deluxe chalets where the rooms offer you balcony overlook the stunning sea views.
This is truly a perfect place for an island escapade with loved ones. The warm hospitality provided will surely make you feel at home.
They even have various exciting activities right on their doorstep!
Price Starting From: RM953 @ SGD$289 (exclude hotel tax & service fee)
Minang Cove Resort & Spa Highlight:
Airport transportation
Restaurant (local & western cuisine)
Bar
Sun Deck
Spa
Tour Boat
Library
Jungle trekking (to waterfall &Mukut village)
Snorkelling
Diving
Campfire on the beach
Good To Know:
Take the beachfront villa located right at the shoreline if you enjoy falling asleep with the sound of the waves very much.
Superior rooms require guests to climb a lot of steps.
Lunch must be ordered before 2 pm. Sometimes it might collide with the return of the dive.
The resort offers buffet dinner with a different theme each day.
No Wi-Fi is provided here.
Wildlife like monkeys and squirrels are normal sight here.
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5. The Barat Tioman Beach Resort
Where to stay in Tioman Island?
Well, this charm of The Barat Tioman Beach Resort lies in their air-conditioned comfort rooms along the unspoiled golden sandy beach amidst the beautiful Juara Village.
There are 56 spacious rooms in total and all are well-equipped with modern amenities.
Price Starting From: RM310 @ SGD$94 (exclude hotel tax & service fee)
The Barat Tioman Beach Resort Highlight:
Beachfront Barat Restaurant (Asian & Western cuisines)
Inform the resort staff prior to avoid missing the ferry or boat to the resort.
Wi-Fi is quite weak due to remote location.
There is no room service, lifts, concierge and buffet breakfast provided.
Beach towels are available upon request.
You can locate your room using the resort map provided.
Hilltop Seaview Villa is located up on a hill. It is quieter and offers a breathtaking sea view.
In-house movies can be enjoyed in the room. You can request for it upon check-in.
Bottled water is provided.
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6. Impian Inn
Established in 1985, Impian Inn offers 20 chalets including 1 family room, 10 standard rooms, 8 deluxe rooms and 1 attap room. With the calming atmosphere, this is an ideal place for a natural rustic getaway where you can have some quiet moments.
Price Starting From: RM191 @ SGD$58 (exclude hotel tax & service fee)
Impian Inn Highlight:
Diving centre
Meeting room/seminar room
Snorkelling gears
BBQ facilities
Jungle trekking
Canoeing
Badminton court
Fishing
Restaurant
Airport transfer
Good To Know:
Food in the resort is slightly expensive but surely worth it.
Monkeys will sometimes disturb the rooms near to the beach.
Avoid staying in chalets located near the road. Sounds of a motorcycle passing by are very noisy.
Remember to bring insect repellents.
Snorkelling trip is a must here. The underwater coral garden is lively and beautiful.
7. Tioman Dive Resort
Tioman Dive Resort is a small yet cosy resort operated by B&J Diving Centre is located in northerm part of Tioman Island.
This Tioman hotel offers professional and quality scuba diving courses to all divers.
Only 11 rooms are available here. Be quick before fully booked!
Price Starting From: RM240 @ SGD$73 (exclude hotel tax & service fee)
Tioman Dive Resort Highlight:
Currency exchange
Bar
Diving
Snorkelling
Water sports
Good To Know:
A great resort for those who enjoy scuba diving very much.
Request for upper floor rooms for more breeze. They are quieter too.
No lift is provided. Stay on ground floor if you have heavy luggage.
Rooms near to the dive shop have a stronger Wi-Fi signal.
The resort does not serve food but there are many restaurants within walking distance.
The pool is built to teach scuba diving, not for swimmers.
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8. Berjaya Tioman Resort
Indulge in a wonderful holiday with Berjaya Tioman Resort! Whether you are looking for adrenaline or relaxation, this 4-star Tioman island resort got all covered. Their attentive and caring service will surely leave you a pleasant stay.
Price Starting From: RM590 @ SGD$179 (exclude hotel tax & service fee)
Berjaya Tioman Resort Highlight:
Snorkelling
Marine Park visitations
Fishing trip
Sunset cruise
Island Hopping
Boat excursions
Shahzan Ballroom (400 pax)
18-hole golf course
PADI Dive Centre
Tennis Court
Gymnasium
Ayura Spa
Swimming pool
Beach Bar
Meeting rooms
Restaurant
Good To Know:
This Tioman island resort provides free transfer service from jetty or airport.
Go to the lobby for free flow water.
If you don’t prefer eating buffet, there are lots of eateries around, which are within walking distance.
Bring along insect repellent.
Register yourself for snorkelling trip a night before to avoid fully booking.
Beachfront rooms are more expensive but the views are nicer.
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9. Aguna Resort
Looking for a cheap and friendly place to stay in Tioman Island?
Aguna Resort should be your first choice! Set against the countryside of Genting Village, this budget hotel offers rustic yet beautiful chalets surrounded by natural beauty.
Price Starting From: RM178 @ SGD$54 (exclude hotel tax & service fee)
Aguna Resort Highlight:
Restaurant
BBQ Pits
Spa
Free Wi-Fi
Good To Know:
The resort is just a 10-minute walk from the jetty.
You can enjoy the freshest mango here as Aguna Resort is surrounded by mango tree.
Beautiful beach is within 5-minute walking distance. Wooden hammocks and tree trunks chairs around are best for watching the sunset.
The resort is near to Tioman Dive Buddy, a dive centre on the island.
You can rent kayak which is located along the beach.
Jungle trekking is not available here.
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10. Sri Sentosa Chalet
With a 6-room bungalow and 12 simple yet comfortable chalets, Sri Sentosa Chalet is a family run homestay whereby the owner, Aishah is dedicated to serve you the best she can.
Besides serving authentic local cuisine, the chalet which is very near to beach and waterfall offers you a lot of fun and exciting activities!
Price Starting From: RM108 @ SGD$33 (exclude hotel tax & service fee)
Bring enough cash because no ATM machine on the island.
The chalet is located at Mukut Village. But the ferry will not bring you there. So remember to ask the owner to arrange private boat transportation for you.
Waterfall is only 20-minute walk.
Exploring village is very fun and exciting.
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11. Beach Shack Chalet
Located at Juara Bay, Beach Shack Chalet is a great place for those who attracted to ocean, waves and surfing! With lively atmosphere and caring customer services, the owner guarantees you a memorable vacation while staying on budget. You may even make new friends here!
Price Starting From: RM172 @ SGD$52 (exclude hotel tax & service fee)
Beach Shack Chalet Highlight:
Surfing lessons
Fishing trips
Snorkelling
Jungle tracking
Rock climbing
Kayaking
Scuba diving
Stand up Paddling
Restaurant
Bar / Lounge
Good To Know:
Free breakfast is provided.
Book early because there are only 11 rooms available.
Ask the staff to help with the transfer service to and from the harbor.
Hammock is provided in every room.
Books and board games are provided upon request.
All rooms are air-conditioned and equipped with a hot shower.
Wake up early to enjoy the wonderful sunrise.
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12. Cheers Chalet
Cheers Chalet is a small operated chalet located at the jungle edge of Tekek Village. The rooms offered are ranged from single rooms, superior rooms to family room. Each room has elegant boutique design and well-equipped with amenities.
Price Starting From: RM60 @ SGD$20 (include hotel tax & service fee)
Cheers Chalet Highlight:
Convenience store
Laundry service
Free Wi-Fi
Bicycle / Motorbike rental
Garden
Hiking
Fishing
Snorkelling
BBQ facilities
Good To Know:
Choose rooms at the end for less road noise.
Single rooms come with a shared bathroom with no hot shower. Quite uncomfortable for some people.
Some of the chalets overlook the rainforest, with no sea views.
Beach is within short walking distance.
Kayak can be rent right in from of the chalet.
No free breakfast is provided.
Insect spray and mosquito coils are provided.
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13. X Rector Minsu
X Rector Minsu is one of the newest Tioman Island accommodations. The hosts, Liang and Michael are very nice and enthusiastic to serve every guest.
The snorkelling trip arranged by them are awesome whereby many guests said they would very likely to return in the future.
Price Starting From: RM1220 @ SGD$370 (exclude hotel tax & service fee)
[…] the multicultural nature of Johor Bahru that the street epitomises. Visit the Johor Chinese Ancient Temple, Gurdwara Sikh Temple and the Arulmigu Rajamariamman Devasthanam Temple which are all located along […]
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[…] the multicultural nature of Johor Bahru that the street epitomises. Visit the Johor Chinese Ancient Temple, Gurdwara Sikh Temple and the Arulmigu Rajamariamman Devasthanam Temple which are all located along […]