Like many of its neighboring countries, Malaysia has also started to consider opening its borders to tourists. In a recent article on Travel Media Today, it was noted that Tourism Malaysia director-general Datuk Musa Yusof is feeling hopeful that by the first quarter of 2021, the country would be able to resume leisure travel and once again welcome international tourists. If you are one of those people who have always been fascinated with this tropical country, here are the top ten places you wouldn’t dare miss if you are to make the most out of Malaysia’s reopening.

Top 10 Places To Visit in Malaysia

1. Malacca City

If you are looking for a place that oozes history and culture, then the best city to go to would be Malacca. Culture Trip’s review of Malaysian tourist destinations explained that this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a colonial city that is famous for its unique architecture, delectable food and the vibrant Jonker Street Night Market. Some of the other historical attractions that can be found in this area are Stadthuys (the official residence of the Dutch governor), St Paul’s Church and A’Famosa Fort.

2. Pulau Tioman

At the east coast of the South China Sea lies the majestic and untouched beaches of Pulau Tioman. Aside from the rich corals and the untarnished beaches that pepper the perimeter of the island, Pulau Tioman boasts an interior that’s filled with dense and luscious rainforest. This natural setup perfectly gives off a more private and secluded feel that’s great for those who want to take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life.

3. The Pinnacles of Gunung Mulu

Cutting through the canopy of the jungles of Borneo are the pinnacles of Gunung Mulu. These alien-like formations are made as the soft limestones eroded away for hundreds of thousands of years. Expat Bets’ list of the things you can do in Malaysia mentioned that the pinnacles can be so difficult to climb that they are often used as the training grounds for the state’s national army. Fortunately, to better accommodate tourists from all around the world, organizers have already installed railings and ladders that will enhance safety and make the trek to the top easier.

4. Taman Negara National Park

Sitting at the heart of the Malay Peninsula is the sprawling green jewel known as the Taman Negara. As an area that covers an impressive 4,300 square kilometers, it isn’t surprising that it houses a myriad of natural formations such as primeval rainforests and winding rivers. People from far and wide flock to this ecotourism mecca to walk the rope bridges, trek the tree-shrouded trails and take a peek of the native animals like the Malayan tiger and galumphing gaurs.

5. Sipadan

Perfect for those who are up for thrilling water adventures, Sipadan is a picture-perfect diving spot that’s made for travel brochures. As Malaysia’s sole oceanic island, you will be greeted by cotton-white sands upon your arrival. To make the most out of your Sipadan escapade, The Crazy Tourist’s guide to traveling around Malaysia highly suggests strapping on an oxygen tank and diving into the pristine waters surrounding the island. Once under the water, there you will find hammerhead sharks, endangered hawksbill turtles, breathtaking coral gardens and immaculate parrotfish.

6. Cameron Highlands

For those of you who wish to spend some time in cooler places, Cameron Highland would be a good choice. This beautiful landscape was developed and grown as a tourist spot since 1885 when British Surveyor William Cameron first “discovered” it. Today, this massive landmass, which has an altitude of 3609 to 5906 feet, is dominated by green tea plantations, as well as strawberry and vegetable farms. If you want to check out this place, make sure to check the weather ahead of time to avoid heavy rainfall.

7. Pulau Pinang

Considered as the food capital of the country, Pulau Pinang is a melting pot of highly diverse cultures, religions and ethnicities. Global Grasshopper’s roster of beautiful places in Malaysia emphasized that the main neighborhood, George Town, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can feast your eyes on the murals created by Lithuanian artist, Ernest Zachrevic and, at the same time, fill your stomach with the mouth-watering fried Nasi Kandar that’s sold along the streets.

8. Langkawi

A favorite among honeymooners, this archipelago at the northernmost part of Malaysia is characterized by numerous beaches. It can also cater to extremely adventurous couples who would like to see the entirety of Langkawi from above through the 1,700-meter cable car that ascends Machinchang Mountain. Apart from the SkyCab, there’s also the SkyBridge, which is suspended over 2,000 feet and curves around a forested mountain peak.

9. Perhentian Islands

Much like the countries in Southeast Asia, Malaysia also houses world-class beaches that are unbelievably beautiful. One of which is the Perhentian Islands. According to Planetware’s review of Malaysian tourist attractions, this breathtaking place offers plenty of opportunities for scuba diving, kayaking, exploring and snorkeling. What’s great about this place is that tourists like you can also partake in the conservation efforts that the local organizations are organizing to preserve green and hawksbill turtles.

10. Borneo Rainforest

For those of you who would like to explore jungles and rainforests, Borneo would be the best place to go to. There you would find the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Center that allows visitors to see orangutans up close and support a good cause. You can also visit the Rainforest Discovery Center, which is an educational destination that provides an impeccable introduction to the island.

From busy, historic cities and relaxing beaches to out-of-this-world formations and rich forests, you can never run out of places to go to in Malaysia. For more tips and tricks on how to make the most out of your travels abroad, check out the fun posts on our Travel Blog.