image credit: Nirian/Getty ImagesWhether you’re a nature lover, wildlife enthusiast, conservationist or simply a seeker of comfort, an uninterrupted getaway at a luxury island resort is something that everyone craves. Malaysia is undoubtedly one of the best and most affordable options for nature-friendly luxury resorts, especially those located on its many mesmerising islands.
Some of these island and beach resorts in Malaysia have gone the extra mile to provide the utmost luxury without disturbing the ecological balance. Additionally, they offer activities that educate and make you more aware of the environment. After all, what is better than a luxury getaway where you bring home more knowledge?
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While some island resorts in Malaysia are perfect for couples, others are kid-friendly. Confused about which one to pick for a tranquil holiday over the next long weekend? We’ve got you covered.
12 best island resorts in Malaysia for your next luxury vacation
The Danna, Langkawi
Image credit: The Danna
Sitting pretty at the doorstep of some of Langkawi’s major attractions — the SkyBridge, Seven Wells Waterfall, and the Oriental Village, the Danna is a majestic addition to the city’s prime beachfront. Blending colonial architecture with contemporary minimalism, the 125-room luxury property works its whimsical magic, on a canvas of creams, beiges, and other neutral palettes. The vast central courtyard is embellished with landscaped greenery and fish ponds, thus contributing to a feeling of tranquillity. The soaring ceilings add to the ambience while its three-tier pool — the largest infinity pool on the island — keeps you happily cocooned in vacation mode. Relaxing cabanas, slouchy chairs, and beanbags line the sea-facing al-fresco space.
The Danna’s main restaurant, Planter’s, serves excellent Mediterranean, European-inspired, and local cuisine which can be enjoyed both indoors or on the terrace. The rooms come with dark wood interiors and a largely natural colour scheme. There’s also an outdoor hot tub and a children’s pool. Inside, you’ll also find a spa with nine treatment rooms, a fitness room, a games room with billiards, snooker, and board games, as well as a library.
Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort and Spa, Kota Kinabalu, Malaysian Borneo
Image credit: The Shangri-La
An embodiment of the brand’s signature aesthetic with its white marble, heavy wooden furniture and contemporary art, Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort finds itself rebelliously jutting out into its own peninsula in the Borneo region of Malaysia. The resort is divided into two sections for guests to enjoy: Rooms in the Kinabalu Wing face either the sea or mountains; while those in the Tanjung Wing face only the sea. The facilities at this Shangri-La property extend beyond the regular secluded beach and manorial central block. Think sunrise yoga, kayaking lessons, and the extremely fun, coconut bowling.
Attendees can choose from a variety of gastronomic experiences available within the premise. Shang Palace, the resort’s Chinese eatery, and Peppino’s, the Italian alternative, offer formal dining, while the lively cooking stations of Café TATU are more casual. The most enjoyable, however, is Coco Joe’s: a zany, al fresco restaurant serving grills, huge mains, cocktails, and unhindered sea views.
Image credit: The Marriott
Unparalleled luxury takes a new form with the St. Regis’s Langkawi property. Nestled on the beachside island town of Kuah, the massive architectural marvel impresses with its Middle Eastern-inspired white walls and wooden arches. Inside, the decor of The Mansion feels reminiscent of a cool European city hotel with high ceilings, white lounges, and local art. The main highlight, however, is the Kayu Puti: a wooden beach house built over the ocean, and designed by renowned architect Bill Bensley. International antiques, seashells, and throne-like chairs with peacock feathers are found inside, with the structure serving as a prime spot for sunset cocktails.
The resort’s Pantai Grill offers wood-fired cooking on the sand, offering delicacies like steaks and snapper, ceviche, and tacos. Kayu Puti’s innovative Asian-inspired cuisine, especially signature seafood dishes such as the parmesan-crusted grouper are audience favourites. Breakfast at L’Orangerie has everything from croissants and champagne to Chinese dumplings, with Moroccan and Middle Eastern dishes on the menu, such as shakshuka.
Image credit: The Four Seasons
Cleverly tucked away within a UNESCO World Geopark — Southeast Asia’s first, Langkawi’s Four Seasons Resort is an enigmatic space sandwiched between lush thickets of landscaped greenery, limestone rock formations, and powder-white sands of their own private beach. Spread amidst 48 acres of land, the luxury property is lined with mangroves, winding rivers, and ancient limestone caves for guests to discover. Be it the beachfront or forest-facing rooms, the resort is an eclectic mix of Moorish-inspired architecture and traditional Malay-style pavilions. The expansive wood-beamed ceilings and revived teak floors with bold accents of blues and teals enliven the space, creating an island-side oasis for luxury lovers.
The sprawling Geo Spa is perhaps the most innovative facility on the property, allowing guests to indulge in a range of treatments, such as the Marine Flora Immersion ritual, which is said to revitalise the lymphatic and immune systems. After concluding a relaxing spa session, one can enjoy tropical cocktails and fusion snacks by the Rhu Bar, a Middle Eastern-inspired lounge and home to the best sunset-viewing spot at the Four Seasons.
Dreaming about a luxury stay surrounded by islands while in a rainforest? Ambong-Ambong Rainforest Retreat is your place to be. Its exotic villas are based around a sustainable and tropical-chic theme, complete with private pools and endless sunrise and sunset views.
You can spend a relaxing session at its spa, which provides healing based on the seven chakras by using “traditions of the Malaysian indigenous tribes,” or indulge in the heritage-filled cooking and dining experiences by savouring delectable Malay dishes.
Taking things to another level is their UNESCO Geopark Experiences, wherein you can go on an informative and interesting tour through the mangrove forests.
Known as Permata Kedah by locals, Langkawi is an archipelago of 99 islands and can be reached in many ways from Singapore. The fastest option to reach the tranquil island is by direct flight, which takes around 1.5 hours. However, other methods such as train, bus or ferry can also take you there.
Batu-Batu Resort – located on Tengah Island – is well known for blending nature conservation with luxury.
Described as “an unspoilt island retreat with an ecological ethos and conviction that tourism can support biodiversity and local communities,” Batu-Batu Resort has 20 one-bedroom and two two-bedroom villas that are designed to showcase traditional Malaysian architecture. These luxurious abodes come with balconies overlooking the tranquil sea or the jungles and are fitted with glass doors so you’ll enjoy infinite views of nature from the comfort of your plush, cosy bed. If you’re bringing children, some rooms come with little enclosures that house bunk beds too.
Apart from relaxing in the lap of nature, you can partake in their conservation activities and contribute to the environment as well. The main restaurant offers a 270-degree view of the natural surroundings and scrumptious seafood options, which are all made fresh with locally sourced ingredients. Their fresh grilled snapper in banana leaf is especially popular and is prepared using authentic Malaysian-style chilli paste. A bakery is also on hand to provide an array of desserts for those with an insatiable sweet tooth.
Johor can be reached by road from Singapore in under two hours if traffic conditions are favourable, so expect to get there in no time at all.
Besides offering mesmerising views of the sea and rainforests to guests staying in its villas, Gaya Island Resort has a special property called the Spa Village. Here, the ethos is “It’s not just a place, it’s a philosophy,” so expect healing therapies that involve authentic local ingredients. Its unique scrubs and practices bring ancient traditions alive while establishing a balance between the body and soul.
Other than the spa, there is an array of experiences to choose from; set out on an intriguing marine expedition or go on nature trails amid the exquisite flora and fauna through mangroves, or spot the red giant flying squirrels. You can also visit their Marine Centre to know more about endangered marine life, turtle rescue, and coral reef restoration.
After an informative day out, you can choose to dine at either Fisherman’s Cove for seafood-themed dishes, or Omakase, a two-storey Japanese restaurant that’s perched on a hillside with a stunning view of Malohom Bay and Mount Kinabalu. Arrange a special private dinner for your special someone by the sea if you’re celebrating a special occasion too.
To reach this haven located at Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park in Kota Kinabalu, you can take a direct flight that’s approximately two hours and 35 minutes.
Image: Courtesy Japamala Resort by Samadhi, Tioman Island
Based on rustic-luxe design philosophy, their villas — or ‘Sarangs’, as called by them — speak of the wilderness, amidst which they are built. As they have been cautious enough to not disrupt the ecological balance by preserving the surrounding trees or rocks, each villa is uniquely different.
Their various ‘chalets’ and ‘Sarangs’ include Treetop Chalets, Seacliff Chalets, Beach Sarang, Luxe Treetop Sarang, Jungle Luxe Sarang, Hillside Sarang, Seaview Sarang and Penghulu’s House, each with its own charm and view.
If you wish to explore the marine wilderness, you can try scuba diving, especially at night for a thrilling adventure. Boat excursions and jungle trekking options are also available. Want to soak in the romance while you’re here? Head to the romantic sunset viewpoint with your special someone for some alone time.
The resort arranges personal transfers between Mersing Jetty, Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. It takes around two hours from Mersing Jetty via a public ferry and nearly four hours by flight from Kuala Lumpur. However, buses take longer — around eight to nine hours.
Located within the Sultan Iskandar Marine Park is this breathtaking island resort, wherein you can get one of the best marine life experiences. The island gets its name ‘Rawa’ from the informal Malay word for white dove.
You can stay in the spacious rooms categorised as Hillside Deluxe, Beachview/Beachfront Chalet, Waterfront Bungalow and Frangipani Villa, depending on your choice of aesthetics. Each has a gorgeous view of lush jungles, turquoise waters, or silver sand.
Their spa is also not just about a relaxing massage or a rejuvenating plunge. Here, infinite views of the South China Sea and a living tree inside the spa area bring the outdoors within, immersing you in a wave of tranquillity.
To explore the local marine life, choose from one of their many diving options. A scuba diving course is also on hand should you wish to pick up the sport, and you can do so at their PADI Five-Star Scuba Diving Instructor Development Center.
When it comes time to eat and drink, enjoy a lavish spread from the various international and local cuisines and fresh tropical fruit that are offered at their buffet restaurant.
Set around 5km from the west coast of Malaysia on a private island is the Pangkor Laut Resort, along the Malacca Straits.
The stunning property has seven villa and suite categories to choose from — Garden Villa, Hill Villa, Beach Villa, Sea Villa, Spa Villa, Suria and Purnama Suite and Pavarotti Suite.
Named after the famous tenor Luciano Pavarotti, the latter was named after it was rumoured that the artist fell in love with Pangkor Laut. This two-bedroom suite has everything you’ll need for a comfortable and luxurious vacation, and besides majestic rooms and views of the sea and rainforests, also promises a huge open-air bathing space.
With seven different dining options, this island resort takes the gastronomic experience to another level. One of its restaurants, Uncle Lim’s Kitchen, is recommended for Nyonya and Hock Chew Chinese-style home cooking. It is named after the chef who has been associated with the resort since the day it was established. Don’t miss dining at their Royal Bay Beach Club on the terrace either, which offers infinity pool views and exotic Asian dishes to feast upon.
Pangkor Laut can be reached by Kuala Lumpur International Airport, and the resort provides car transfers to their office on Marina Island, Pangkor and a speedboat ride from there to the resort. From Singapore, fly either via Firefly or Malindo Air to the Sultan Azlan Shah Airport in Ipoh, and then hop on a 90-minute private car or taxi transfer to Pangkor Laut Resort’s office at Marina Island Pangkor, followed by a speedboat transfer to Pangkor Laut Resort.
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Gem Island Resort & Spa, Terengganu
Image: Courtesy Gem Island Resort, Terengganu
Whether you are travelling solo, with your family, a special someone, or a group of friends, you can customise your package with the various offers provided by this beautiful island resort. For those who are fond of a perfectly organised trip, the Uniquely Tailored Experience option will help you tailor your stay sightseeing options, and meals according to your preference.
Besides Premiere Villas and Water Villas, Gem Island Resort & Spa’s two-storey Hideaway Suites and Hideaway Villas can prove to be one of the cosiest options, especially since they’re swathed by local fauna.
Their restaurant, which sits along the coastline, offers delectable Asian and Western cuisines and some of the finest wines.
Located at the Pulau Gemia islands in the town of Marang, the resort can be reached from Marang Jetty, which is accessible from Singapore by bus via a 10-hour drive. If you opt for a flight, it takes around 30 minutes from the Kuala Terengganu Airport.
Image: Courtesy Rebak Island Resort & Marina, Langkawi
Nestled amid rich greens on a private island is this resort by Vivanta, where each of its suites exudes rich Malaysian culture and architecture with timber finishing and spacious balconies overlooking the sea or the forests.
Here, the island resort offers various activities and entertainment options, including archery classes, cooking classes, darts, karaoke, water sports, kids’ club, themed dinners and temporary art galleries, making it a beautiful place to tickle the artist or the adventure seeker in you? Additionally, while you unwind, your little ones are taken care of as they provide babysitting services on request.
The island resort in Malaysia also features exotic restaurants and bars serving delicious Asian and continental dishes, with the Strait’s Grill providing some freshly caught seafood for discerning gourmands. With three bars on the site, you can decide whether to try their selected wines or refreshing cocktails.
To get to Langkawi Airport from Singapore, take a direct flight via AirAsia or Scoot. Langkawi Airport is around 8km from the Cenang Port Jetty, which is nearly seven minutes by boat from the resort.
This story first appeared here.
(Main and featured image credit: Nirian/Getty Images)
Are you looking for a break away from all the monotony of everyday life?
Perhaps you want to have a little adventure in the process?
It’s time to grab your hiking boots and head straight to Johor.
Johor region, which is located on the southern part of Peninsular Malaysia, is home to one of the most treacherous mountains in the whole of Malaysia and is in close proximity to Singapore.
It is a mountainous region and as such has a series of mountains which are different in every aspect except that they are all found in Johor.
In this article, you will discover the 7 most captivating mountains or ‘Gunung’ as they are called in the local Malaysian language.
We will also give you directions on how to get to each one of them.
Captivating Hills in Johor
1. Gunung Pulai, Johor
When driving to Gunung Pulai you cannot fail to notice the most obvious landmark that tells you have arrived. It is the teacup landmark which bears the name Anggun Café and the road that leads to the starting trailhead of Gunung Pulai.
The 654m high mountain covers about 80 square kilometers of forest reserve and it is the closest area between Johor Bahru and Singapore.
Gunung Pulai also is known as Mount Pulai is one the most popular hiking spots in Johor. The flora and fauna found in Mount Pulai attract a lot of hikers in this part of the world.
Many Singaporeans and other visitors are attracted to Gunung Pulai because they believe that there is a historic connection between Mt Pulai and Singapore. The forest reserve is a water catchment area that feeds the Johor River which in turn supplies water to many Singaporeans.
Gunung Pulai is also an exciting feature to many Singaporeans because it stands out in terms of coverage and height as compared to Singapore’s highest hill which stands at 164m above sea level.
The diversity in wildlife here is also appealing to most hikers. There is also a wide array of tantalizing local food which is purely irresistible to most visitors.
Contacts: +60 14-988 1988
How To Get To Gunung Pulai, Johor
After clearing with customs head directly to NS Highway and look out for exit 252, that is Kulaijaya /Kota Tinggi. After clearing Kulaiijaya toll look out for Hutan Liput Gunung Pulai sign on your right. Then drive along Jalan Sawahto JIn TM Gn Pulai, you will see lots of sand quarries and oil plantation along the way. After 11 km about 10 minutes of driving, you will come to the entrance of Kg Sri Gunung Pulai on your left.
2. Gunung Panti in Kota Tinggi, Johor
Gunung Panti is a Malay word which means Mount Panti. It is a treacherous but beautiful mountain which can be seen from as far as Kota Tinggi Waterfalls.
Its imposing outlines stand out as it challenges any adventure seeker to try it out.
Travelling along the road, one immediately notices that its left edge has an almost vertical face that stares menacingly at every passerby or motorist as if giving out an open challenge.
It is 485 meters high and its peak appears as if it is capped with a huge bolder which gives it an unmistakable identity. This is the perfect set up for any hiker who wishes to take up the daunting task of reaching its peak and discover what is in store.
Once at the peak, the mountain offers you a full circle view of the surrounding area not to mention beautiful scenery that awaits you at the top in form of flora and fauna. It will take any hiker about 2.5hrs to ascend and 2hrs to descend and climbing this mountain is not very taxing. Make sure you are dressed for the occasion as sometimes it can really get wet and you don’t want to be caught in the mess.
How To Get To Gunung Panti In Kota Tinggi
To reach its foothills, drive from Kota Tinggi town towards Air Terjun passing Kampong Batu Ampat, Air Terjun or Kota Rainforest Resort is about 8km from Kampong Batu Ampat. The road you should look out for should be on your right and about 50 meters before reaching Kota Rainforest Resort. Take the dirt road and you will find yourself at the foot of Mount Panti in no time.
3. Gunung Lambak in Kluang, Johor
Gunung Lambak is a twin peaked mountain with a higher peak reaching about 510 meters. Lambak, which is translated as Flea Mountain, is a little bit steeper than Gunung Panti and needs a lot of effort to hike.
The trail that leads to Lamback Mountain is ever rising and rough. Most parts of the trail have ropes which have been set up to help in the climbing.
On the outskirts of Kluang town, there is the Gunung Lambak Eco Resort where the trail starts. The steep trail is well known by hikers who have climbed the mountain before.
Photo credits: travelledpaths.com
It can offer a very good challenge to any hiker who wishes to conquer the Gunung Lambak. It takes about 2-3 hours to scale the mountain and back. Climbing the mountain is free as there are no permits or admission charges.
As a visitor, you can choose where to stay depending on your budget. You can choose the Eco Resort or Rail Hotel. The Eco Resort is a bit expensive because it has the necessary resources like camping facilities, swimming pool, kids playing ground and others. Food is also cheaper at the Green Home Wealthy Vegetarian Cafe and the Kluang coffee rail which has very odd operating hours.
How To Get To Gunung Lambak In Kluang
If you want to reach Gunung Lambak in Kluang and you are using the North-South Expressway, you should take the Air Hitam exit (interchange 244) and then take Highway 50 to Kluang town. When you are near Kluang you will see signposts for Gunung Lambak Recreational Forest which is on the southeast edge of the town.
4. Gunung Belumut, Johor
Gunung Belumut is about 1010 meters high and is located about 18km east of Kluang. This mountain is higher and steeper as compared to Lambak and Panti Mountains and takes an individual the whole day to trek up and down.
For a small group, it will take about 2days and one night to make the entire trek. There is a resort at the base of the mountain which offers some semblance of security to verify the trekker’s identities and permission.
There are charges for mountain climbing and using of the chalet for an overnight stay.
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Photo credits: meetup.com
The trekking route has three campsites along the way to the summit. The first campsite is located just a small distance from the base of the mountain. The second one is found on your way to the summit while the last one is found is just about 30 meters further up the second one.
The best campsite is the one at the base of the mountain with a flowing stream nearby. Both sides of the bank can be used as campsites with a capacity of about 20 people. The second campsite, a 30-minute walk from the summit, is relatively small with a holding capacity of about 12.
It is sheltered by trees and has an inadequate water supply. The last campsite is further up the mountain and much bigger with space for about 20 people. It is exposed and may pose lighting strikes danger. A sleeping bag must be carried as it is quite cold up here. It is also good to have some mosquito coil, salt and vinegar just in case of anything.
How To Get To Gunung Belumut, Johor
Take a bus from Singapore to Larkin terminal in Johor Bahru where you take another express bus to Kluang. The journey will last slightly over one and a half hours at an estimated cost of about RM 6.40 per person. Take a Taxi from Kluang Bus Interchange to Grunung Belumut Park at a cost of RM 30 for a one-way ticket or RM 60 for a two-way ticket. It may take 30 minutes to reach Belumut Park. Alternatively, you can arrange with the resort manager to bring you from either the train station or the bus station to the resort.
5. Gunung Arong in Mersing, Johor
Gunung Arong Recreational Forest is a forest reserve located in the Mersing District in Johor.
A stream runs through the entire length and breadth of the forest.
The stream offers maximum enjoyment to many hikers and adventure seekers, whose cooling and refreshing effects are an unforgettable experience.
Photo credits: gaiaadventurers.com
The Gunung Arong peak rewards hikers and trekkers alike with a panoramic view of the South China Sea and its neighbouring islands. In good weather, you can also be able to see the magnificent splendor of Pulau Tioman unfolding before your eyes. To reach the peak, which is about 255 meters high, one has to trek for about 2 hours.
After the trek, one can always relax at the Tanjung Resang Beach. This is a popular destination for many hikers. Its rough waves and wind creates the perfect situation to be in harmony with the wild nature.
How To Get To Gunung Arong In Mersing
Little is known if there is any public transportation to the area. Getting here is best done by personal vehicle or by private taxi. The area is in between Mersing and Endau. You will see a single small shop selling snacks serving as a registration counter.
6. Gunung Ledang, Johor
This is perhaps one of the most trekked mountains in Peninsular Malaysia. Gunung Ledang, which is also commonly known as Mount Ophir, can be accessed via two routes.
The Sagil Path is the most commonly used path and is much longer than the Asahan route. The Asahan route is less known because it is less accessible as compared Sagil. A few trekkers have used the route up the Ophir Mountain.
Photo credits: iwannatravel.com.sg
The start of the trek from Asahan is easily accessible by vehicles where you will see a signboard notice that warns trekkers to only use the Asahan route for both the descend and the ascend.
Transport arrangements should therefore be made to pick you up after descending from the mountain. The Asahan trail is also relatively cleaner than the Sagil one and there is no entrance charge or climbing permit. This path is wilder than Sagil and leads you to a campsite located about 1.5 hours away from the summit.
The campsite is large enough and can hold up to 10 tents in different locations. There is also a stream nearby which brings a lot of relief to any trekker.
How To Get To Gunung Ledang, Johor
Take a bus 170 from Singapore to Larkin Terminal in Johor Bahru. From there, take an Express bus from Larkin to Segamat at a cost of about RM 10 per person and takes about 3hours 15 minutes. From the Segamat Interchange to Asahan, you can take a Taxi at about RM 80 per cab. It takes about 1 hour 15 minutes to reach Asahan from here.
7. Gunung Muntahak, Johor
Gunung Muntahak is a 634m hill that is the main water source for the Kota Tinggi Waterfall. It is a largely undisturbed rainforest with little or no human intrusion.
The hill is hidden by other hills and it is hard to see from the main road leading to Kota Tinggi Waterfall.
Photo credits: timeoff2outdoors.com
It has the perfect condition for the growth of beautiful palm which is widespread in this rainforest. The trail to the summit is gentle and narrow, and has many obstructions as one makes his way towards the summit.
The ascent becomes more steeper and tiring as one gets close to the summit which does not offer any rewarding view as the area has thick and tall vegetation that obstruct any meaningful view.
How To Get To Gunung Muntahak, Johor
Take SBS bus 170 from Singapore to Larkin Terminal in Johor Bahru. Then take G.P. Express bus at Platform 33 from Johor Bahru Bus Interchange to Kota Tinggi Bus Interchange at a cost of RM 3.50 per person. At Kota Tinggi take a Causeway Link Bus no.66 to Gunung Muntahak at a cost of about RM 2.00. The ride will last about 30-45 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a Taxi from Kota Tinggi Interchange to Wet World resort entrance (The trek starting point) at a cost of RM 10-12.
While Malaysia is known for its beaches, its hill stations are some of the most beautiful locations of the country. From the adventure parks of Genting Highlands to the verdant locales of Kelabit Highlands, and from the endless hiking trails of Bukit Tinggi to the birdwatching opportunities at Fraser Hill, hill stations in Malaysia offer travellers unforgettable adventures. Join us on a voyage across some of Malaysia’s finest hill stations as we explore their pleasant climates and natural attractions.
Best hill stations in Malaysia
Genting Highlands
Image credit: panlertb/Shutterstock
Genting Highlands offers a seamless blend of natural beauty and urban amenities, making it one of the most popular hill stations in Malaysia. Located on Mount Ulu Kali’s summit at an elevation of 1800 metres, it is home to Resorts World Genting, a popular integrated resort featuring casinos and theme parks.
Location: Pahang Best time to visit: March to September Things to do: Ride the Genting SkyWay cable system, and visit Sky Casino Restaurants to try: Burger & Lobster Genting, Tavern in the Sky, and Spice Garden Hotels to stay: Resorts World Genting, Genting SkyWorlds Hotel, and Grand Ion Delemen Hotel
How to reach
By air: Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport is approximately 42 km away By train: Batang Kali KTM Station is approximately 78 km away
Cameron Highlands
Image credit: Ravin Rau/Unsplash
Known for its lush rolling hills and valleys, Cameron Highlands is one of the top hill stations in Malaysia. Home to picturesque walking trails, butterfly farms, verdant tea plantations, cascading waterfalls, and charming strawberry farms, it is one of the most visited hill stations in Malaysia by locals and tourists alike.
Location: Pahang Best time to visit: February to July Things to do: Hike across Mossy Forest, visit Lavender Garden, and shop at the local markets Restaurants to try: Scott’s Cafe, Singh Chapati, and Sri Brinchang Hotels to stay: Cameron Highlands Resort, Strawberry Park Resort, and Kinta Riverfront Hotel & Suites
How to reach
By air: Ipoh Airport is approximately 33 km away By train: Tapah Road Railway Station is approximately 68 km away
Penang Hill
Image credit: Jakub Specjalski/Shutterstock
Located in the heart of Penang Island, Penang Hill is a popular hill resort. Also known as Bukit Bendera, it is considered the oldest colonial hill station in Southeast Asia. Several lookout points across its multiple peaks offer breathtaking views of lush forests, the azure blue sea, sandy beaches, and magnificent sunsets.
Location: Air Itam suburb Best time to visit: December to February Things to do: Visit Penang Botanic Gardens and Penang Butterfly Farm, ride the iconic Penang Hill funicular, and spend a day at the Wonder Food Museum Restaurants to try: David Brown’s Restaurant & Tea Terrace, Hillview Cafe, and Marrybrown Hotels to stay: DoubleTree Resort by Hilton, DeView Hotel, and Berjaya Penang Hotel
How to reach
By air: Penang International Airport is approximately 16 km away By train: Butterworth Railway Station is approximately 26 km away
Bukit Tinggi
Image credit: Najmi Arif/Shutterstock
Home to the popular Colmar Tropicale, a beautiful French-themed village resort and theme park, Bukit Tinggi is a quaint hill station in Pahang. One of the best hill stations in Malaysia, it is also home to the Berjaya Hills Resort, a major attraction for those seeking a retreat from the hustle and bustle of Kuala Lumpur, which is less than 60 km away. Located on the scenic Kuala Lumpur-Karak Expressway connecting it to Genting Highlands, Bukit Tinggi is a popular stopover for locals and tourists.
Location: Bentong, Pahang Best time to visit: March to September Things to do: Visit the Chin Swee Caves Temple, explore the Japanese Tea House, and spend a day at the Rabbit Farm. Restaurants to try: La Flamme, La Blason, and Fantasy Valley Restaurant Hotels to stay: Colmar Tropicale, Berjaya Hills Resort, and The Chateau Spa & Wellness Resort
How to reach
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By air: Minangkabau Airport is approximately 54 km away By train: Batang Kali Railway Station is approximately 75 km away
Fraser Hill
Image credit: Neoh Chee Kong/Shutterstock
Fraser Hill, known as Bukit Fraser in Malay, is popular for its verdant forests, walking trails, and diverse birdlife. Still relatively unexplored, it offers plenty of hiking opportunities that lead to waterfalls, lakes, dams, and rolling meadows. The forested areas are home to Malay tigers, harbour panthers, and sun bears.
Location: Pahang Best time to visit: April to September Things to do: Visit the Jeriau Waterfall, go for a walk on the Pine Tree Trail or the Bishop Trail, and go on a paddle boat ride across Allan’s Water Lake Restaurants to try: Aida Daniya Restaurant & English Teahouse, Ye Olde Smokehouse, and Restoran Ratha Raub Hotels to stay: The Pines @ Fraser Hills, Puncak Inn, and Fraser’s Silverpark Resort
How to reach
By air: Kuala Lumpur International Airport is approximately 155 km away By train: Kuala Kubu Bharu Railway Station is approximately 41 km away
Bukit Larut
Image credit: KCEmperor/Shutterstock
A quaint little hill station in Malaysia, Bukit Larut, formerly known as Maxwell Hill, is famous for its rolling hills and meadows adorned with a variety of flowers, including petunias, roses, tulips, marigolds, dahlias, daisies, and pansies. Located on the Bintang Mountain Range, Bukit Larut is one of the most biodiverse regions in Malaysia, hosting more than 20% of the country’s plant species.
Location: Perak Best time to visit: March to October Things to do: Enjoy the Taiping Zoo & Night Safari, spend an evening at Taiping Lake Gardens, and enjoy a short hike at Kaki Bukit Larut Restaurants to try: Taiping Seven Village Noodle House, Carson Grill, and The Mask Cafe Hotels to stay: Novotel Taiping Perak, Flemington Hotel, and Hotel Casuarina
How to reach
By air: Taiping (Tekah) Airport is approximately 8 km away By train: Taiping Railway Station is approximately 9 km away
One of the most unexplored hill stations of Malaysia, Kelabit Highlands boasts magnificent mountain ranges, lush forests, rolling hills, and quaint villages. With its pleasant weather and diverse flora, it offers options through forests and rice fields, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.
Location: Sarawak Best time to visit: March to September Things to do: Attend the annual three-day Bario Food Festival in July, visit the natural salt springs of Pa Umor, trek through jungles and villages Restaurants to try: Boon Kee Restaurant, Cloude Town Cafe, and Chan’s Restaurant Hotels to stay: The Ngimat Ayu House and Bulan and Daud Homestay
How to reach
By air: Marudi Airport is approximately 6 km away By train: Bandar Tasik Selatan Railway Station is approximately 2,949 km away
-What is the best time to visit Malaysia’s hill stations? It is best to avoid the monsoon seasons when visiting Malaysia’s hill stations. Visit the east coast from March to October, and the south coast from November to March.
-What are the things to do at Malaysian hill stations? You can enjoy trekking, adventure activities, spa therapies, birdwatching, and more at Malaysia’s hill stations.
-Are there any unique attractions in Cameron Highlands? The Time Tunnel Museum is one of the most unique attractions in Cameron Highlands. This museum showcases historical memorabilia and artefacts of the country.
-Can I experience a cool climate at Malaysia’s hill stations? Yes, Malaysia’s hill stations experience cool and pleasant weather almost all through the year.
-Is Genting Highlands suitable for family vacations? Yes, Genting Highlands is a popular destination for family vacations.
-Are there hiking trails in Malaysian hill stations? Most hill stations in Malaysia are home to verdant hiking trails suitable for people of all age groups.
-Are there cultural experiences in the hill stations of Malaysia? From temples to food festivals, museums to historical sites, hill stations in Malaysia are home to several cultural experiences.
