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.
With 65km off the east coast of Johor, Pulau Dayang is the furthest island from the mainland of east Peninsular Malaysia.
Its unique diving spot and fishing location have made the island famous among active divers and sport-fishermen.
But in general, the island is lesser-known even though it offers stunning beaches and fantastic underwater world.
With increasing accommodation and promotion packages offered, Dayang Island has the potential to become an international tourist destination in Malaysia.
Why Stay In Pulau Dayang?
In fact, Pulau Dayang and 4 other small islands make up an Aur Group, the region of Johor’s Marine Park due to incredible marine life all around the islands. Pulau Dayang is the second biggest islands in the group.
Home to Black Marlin, the fastest fish in the world, Pulau Dayang has attracted sport fishermen from all over the places for a game fish. Ideal fishing spots are available all around the island.
Mainly discovered by foreign tourists especially divers, Pulau Dayang serves an ideal training location even for new scuba divers. The crystal-clear water allows divers to discover the colorful underwater world clearly.
The beautiful coral reefs offshore enable non-divers to go for snorkeling. With the white sandy beaches and astonishing sea view, Pulau Dayang is the tropical paradise in Malaysia.
How To Get To Pulau Dayang
The jetty that offers ferry service to Pulau Dayang is Mersing jetty. Departure time for the ferry is normally on Friday night and it takes around 5 hours to arrive at the island.
Alternatively, book a diving trip with the dive shops in Malaysia or Singapore. The operator will arrange boat transfer for you.
For budget transportation to jetty, direct coach services are now available. The journey from Singapore to Mersing jetty takes around 3 hours.
To arrive at Mersing Jetty, either you’re from Malaysia or Singapore, it’s recommended to hire a private car as it makes your journey simple and less troublesome.
If you are planning to spend some times in Mersing, check out the best things to do in Mersing.
What To Do In Pulau Dayang
1. Scuba-Diving at Pulau Dayang
Scuba-diving experiences are the activities that shouldn’t be missed out in Pulau Dayang. Dayang Tip, Captains Point, Telok Jawa, Rayners Rock, and Dayang Jetty are the diving spots surround the island. After diving, fill up your own dive logs to have memories to look back in the future.
2. Visit Local Fisherman Village of Pulau Dayang
Hop on to nearby islands by chartering a small boat at the jetty. The nearest island, Aur Island is just 5 minutes boat ride from Pulau Dayang. Otherwise, visit Kampung Pasir Putih, a local fisherman village which means Village of White Sand.
For non-divers, go for snorkeling at shallower regions. Or you can play beach volleyball and go for sunbathing at the beach.
4. Catch Sunrise & Sunset At Pulau Dayang
Bring a binocular and be a star gazer at night! Pulau Dayang offers stunning views of stars when the weather is good. You’ll be amazed by the star formations high up the sky.
Wake up early to catch the sunrise at the jetty. In the evening, sunset can be enjoyed at the jetty as well.
Where to Stay in Pulau Dayang
1. Dayang Blue Resort
The only resort in Pulau Dayang is situated at the southernmost part of the island facing Pulau Aur. As Pulau Dayang is famous among divers, being the only resort on the island made it popular among the divers too. The resort is surrounded by blue water thus it is named Dayang Blue Resort.
Dayang Blue Resort features comfortable chalets overlooking the elegant beach and it can accommodate up to 300 visitors. The resort provides over 20 outdoor bathrooms as there is no private bathroom in the rooms. Extra bed can be arranged upon request.
The on-site restaurant is located close to their reception counter. It serves simple local food such as char kue tiaw and nasi goreng. The restaurant can cater the needs of vegetarians. BBQ can be enjoyed at night.
When Is The Best Time To Visit Pulau Dayang
During monsoon season, the whole island is susceptible to monsoon winds from South China Sea. Due to the rough sea and strong wind, the island is closed to the public from November to March. There is no ferry available as well.
Kindly visit Pulau Dayang during diving season that falls between April to September. Within these months, the visibility of water for many Malaysia dive sites are great including Dayang Island and the divers are able to see the coral reefs clearly. Plus, the water temperature is at normal range. However, beware of the jellyfish season. It is painful to get stung by them.
Pulau Dayang Travel Tips
The boat journey is long. It takes longer time when the sea is rough.
Mersing jetty offers more boat transfer to Pulau Dayang as compared to Tanjung Leman Jetty.
The life jacket is a must while going for snorkeling.
Weekend diving trips cost around SGD $380 to SGD $480.
Interested to know more about the unique historic character of Malacca?
Then you must not forget to visit the heritage and historic buildings in Malacca that always open their doors and welcomes you warmly!
In this article, we have compiled 10 of the most famous tourist attractions near the Jonker Street for you.
Since some of them have spanned on Earth for many centuries, they might offer you a special feeling of the past too!
And after paying the visit, you will how amazingly Malacca has shaped and turned into this beautiful heritage town.
Let’s move on!
You can make the history of Malacca come alive again!
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Top 10 Attractions Near Jonker Street
1. A Famosa
Being the most iconic attraction in Malacca, A Famosa stands as one of the oldest European architectural buildings in Asia. Also known as Porta De Santiago, it has the meaning of “The Famous”. True to the name, it is the most photographed spot in Malacca.
In 1511, the Portuguese who successfully conquered Malacca decided to build this fortress to consolidate their gains and defend against invasion. Due to the strategic location of Malacca, they believed that Malacca could be the major port plying between Portugal and China too.
The fortress housed all Portuguese administration such as 4 key towers, 5 churches, hospitals and elongated stockades. In 1586, they expended the fortress to sustain the growing population.
Years later, A Famosa was modified by Dutch when they took over Malacca. But when British ruled over Malacca, they demolished the fortress, leaving only a small gate house untouched. And this is the only part of A Famosa that you see today.
Address: Jalan Parameswara, Bandar Hilir, 78000 Melaka, Malaysia.
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2. St. Paul Hill & Church
Built in 1521, St. Paul Church is one of the ruins of A Famosa located at the top of St. Paul Hill. There are a statue of St. Francis Xavier and several tombstones beside. It is also the oldest church built in Malaysia.
Dedicated to Mary, the mother of Jesus, the church was constructed by Duarte Coelho, the Portuguese nobleman captain. He built the church to express his gratitude as he’d just escaped from the massive storm in South China Sea.
During the Dutch colonisation, the church was repaired and used as Protestant church. Later when British took over Malacca, they built a lighthouse and stored gunpowder in it. Since then, the church had fallen into disuse.
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As the church is at the summit of hill, it offers wonderful view of Malacca. The well-maintained staircase has firm iron handlings and wide green field beside. It’s just only a short walk to reach the top.
Address: Jalan Kota, Bandar Hilir, 75000 Melaka, Malaysia.
3. Maritime Museum Malacca
Maritime Museum Malacca is an outstanding museum established in 1994. Audio facility is provided inside the museum.
Easily spotted from far, the architecture of the museum is the replica of a Portuguese ship named “Flora de La Mar”. The structure is approximately 36m long, 8m wide and 34m high.
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Maritime Museum Malacca highlights the role of Malacca as an international and regional business centre in old times. Despite showcasing documents and artefacts of Malacca’s trading history, it also reveals the political control of Malacca in old times.
Besides, the well-restored ship showcases lots of ancient currency and ship models of different eras that went through by Malacca. These eras include the Melaka Sultanate, Portuguese, Dutch to British colonisation.
Kids and the elderly must be careful of the steep staircase. Watch out the kids because some are not able to grip the high railing.
Address: Jalan Merdeka, Bandar Hilir, 75000 Melaka, Malaysia. Opening Hours:
Monday to Friday: 9:00am – 5:30pm
Saturday & Sunday: 9:00am – 9:00pm Entrance Fee:
Adults: RM3.00
Children: RM1.00
4. Menara Taming Sari
Menara Taming Sari is a 110m high gyro tower that opened to public in 2008. It is built with high Swiss technology, costing RM24 million in total.
Featuring a unique revolving platform, it offers an amazing 360-degree view of Malacca even to the island nearby. Other interesting sights include St. Paul’s Hill, Dataran Pahlawan, Pulau Besar, Straits of Malacca and the Maritime Museum.
This is also the very first yet only revolving gyro tower in Malaysia. Holding 66 passengers at once, the air-conditioned ride begins by lifting to 80m high.
At the same time, the glass cabin is slowly rotated, offering you a grand panorama. Excellent weather adds a bonus to the view too! In overall, the ride takes around 7 minutes.
Besides, the attraction is fitted with commercial outlets that consist of souvenir shops, restaurants and cafes.
Address: Jalan Merdeka Banda Hilir, 75000 Melaka, Malaysia. Contact: +606-288 1100 / +606-281 3366 Opening Hours:
Daily: 10:00am – 11:00pm Entrance Fee:
Adult (Malaysian): RM17
Children Below 12 (Malaysian): RM11
Adult (International Traveller): RM23
Children Below 12 (International Traveller): RM15
5. Malacca Sultanate Palace
Situated at the foot of the St. Paul’s Hill, Malacca Sultanate Palace is a cultural museum that looks exactly same as the palace of Sultan Mansur Shah in 15th century. Hence, all historical documents inside are taken from the era of the Sultan Mansur Shah from 1456 to 1477.
To your surprise, the entire wooden palace was built without using nails. The palace even features zinc and copper roof and supported by beautifully carved pillars.
Using the data and information obtained from Malay Annals, the palace successfully preserved the golden era of Malacca. Thousands of prints, artefacts, drawings and photographs of Malacca Sultanate’s amazing history are exhibited in the museum.
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The three-storey cultural museum is divided into 8 chambers showcasing traditional costumes, jewellery, weaponry, brassware, decorative arts and more. There are also 3 galleries depicting the legendary warriors of Malacca Hang Jebat and Hang Tuah.
Address: Jalan Kota, 75000 Melaka, Malaysia. Contact: +606-262 7464 Opening Hours:
Daily: 9:00am – 6:00pm
Closed on: Monday Entrance Fee:
Adults: RM2.00
Children: RM1.00
6. Melaka River Cruise
If you want to sightseeing the heritage town of Malacca at the most leisurely pace, Melaka River Cruise is definitely your top choice. It is also one of the most popular tourist destinations in Malacca.
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There are 3 jetties available where you can board the cruise: Muara Jetty, Taman Rempah Jetty and The Shore Jetty. The 9km round trip takes around 45 minutes. On the boat, there will be recorded commentary that introduces you the surrounding attractions.
As the cruise offers their services from day to night, you can choose the time and atmosphere that you like the most. During the day, you get a better view of the street arts and nearby attractions.
Widely known as the Masjid Selat Melaka, Melaka Straits Mosque is built above the sea of Pulau Melaka, the man-made island in Malacca. The mosque was formally opened by the Malacca’s king on 24th November 2006.
This is truly one of the most elegant mosques in Malaysia. Especially during the high tide, it looks exactly like a floating mosque on the ocean.
Despite following the modern Islamic architecture, it mixes with some Malaysian rooflines and Middle Eastern elements too. The large yet extraordinary prayer room inside can accommodate up to 1500 people.
While you are here, you can see the full coast of Melaka and it looks extremely stunning during sunset. And due to the scenic spot, it is more likely a popular tourist destination instead of the place of worship.
8. St. Francis Xavier Church
With the prominent twin spired neo-gothic architecture, St. Francis Xavier Church serves as one of the main historical buildings in Malacca. The church is easily spotted from far because the architecture is so different from the buildings surrounding it.
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In 1856, the church was constructed by a French priest named Father Farvé and completed by Father Allard later in 1859. In 1874, the presbytery was constructed and used until present day.
Many said that the church’s architecture resembles the Cathedral of St. Peter located in France, except for the portico that was added in 1963.
Nowadays, it still functions as a catholic church that offer services in different languages such as English, Tamil and Mandarin. Due to the long history, you might discover that the church leans a bit to the left.
Address: 12, Jalan Banda Kaba, Bandar Hilir, 75000 Melaka, Malaysia. Contact: +606-282 4770 / +606-282 4817
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9. Straits Chinese Jewellery Museum
Opened in 2012, Straits Chinese Jewellery Museum is set in a heritage building filled with Baba Nyonya culture.
Before the establishment, it was a home of a wealthy Peranakan Chinese. It consists of two spacious courtyards, dining room, living room, several bedrooms and more. Hence, the museum showcases the opulent lifestyle of them as well as their traditions and customs.
Displaying close to thousands furniture and jewellery of the era, you get to learn the Peranakan culture in detail. Most of the design are highly influenced the motifs of Chinese ethnic. by Gallery and several jewellery-making equipment are displayed here too.
There will be tour guides who are friendly and knowledgeable to lead you all the way round. The tour takes around 45 minutes and you can opt for either Chinese or English language tour.
Address: 108, Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock, 75200 Melaka, Malaysia. Contact: +606-281 9763 Opening Hours:
Monday to Friday: 10:00am – 5:00pm
Saturday & Sunday: 10:00am – 6:00pm Entrance Fee:
Adult: RM15
Children (6-12 years old): RM10
Children (below 6): Free
10. Masjid Kampung Hulu
Built in 1728, Masjid Kampung Hulu is the second oldest mosque in Malacca. Originally, the mosque was build out of wood. Due to environmental exposure issues, the wooden structure was replaced with concrete materials in 1892, in case of collapse.
When Portuguese ruled over Malacca, they demolished all religion buildings except the Christian establishments. However, Dutch who took over Malacca from Portuguese helped the locals a lot in rebuilding their worship places. Masjid Kampung Hulu is one of them.
The mosque has a distinctive architecture design as it combines both Javanese and Chinese elements. With 3 ascending layers of pyramidal roof, it also boasts precious adornment from Ching Dynasty. In the front yard, there are 2 cannons that seem to guard the entrance.
Only Muslims can enter the mosque. For non-Muslims, you can walk around the mosque and find some scenic spot for pictures.
Address: Jalan Kampung Hulu, 75200 Melaka, Malaysia.
[…] 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 […]