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Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur
Tropical
From $66 /day
Malaysia
Malaysia is a vibrant mosaic where ancient rainforests meet futuristic skylines and diverse cultures live in harmony. From the iconic Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur to the UNESCO-listed heritage streets of George Town, you will find a land of striking contrasts and deep traditions. The country is a world-renowned culinary destination, blending Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences into a unique flavor profile that defines the local way of life. Whether you are trekking through the 130-million-year-old jungles of Taman Negara or diving in the crystal-clear waters of Sipadan, the natural beauty is staggering. It is a destination that offers high-end luxury alongside authentic backpacker adventures, all delivered with legendary Southeast Asian hospitality.
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We built this guide using official tourism data, local travel insights, and real pricing from our city guides, so you can plan your trip with confidence.
3 cities
9 guides
$57 – $82 Daily Budget
Quick Facts
Capital
Kuala Lumpur
Languages
Malay (Bahasa Malaysia), English
Currency
Malaysian Ringgit (MYR)
1 $ ≈ 3.89 RM
Plug Type
Type G (240V, 50Hz)
Driving Side
Left
Dial Code
+60
Entry Requirements
Check requirements →
Time Zone
MYT (UTC+8)
Emergency
999 (Police/Ambulance), 994 (Fire); 112 from mobiles
Why Visit Malaysia
A Culinary Melting Pot
Malaysia is famous for having some of the world's best street food, where you can feast for as little as $3.53–$5.89 / RM14–RM23. The fusion of spices and techniques from three major ethnic groups creates a dining experience found nowhere else.
Incredible Biodiversity
You can encounter orangutans in the wild in Borneo or explore one of the oldest rainforests on the planet in the peninsula. The country is a haven for nature lovers and wildlife photographers seeking rare species.
Accessible Adventure
With a sophisticated transport network and high English proficiency, navigating between modern cities and remote islands is remarkably easy. High-speed trains and budget flights make multi-stop itineraries seamless for any traveler.
Island Paradise
From the duty-free archipelago of Langkawi to the world-class diving spots off the coast of Sabah, the beaches are spectacular. These islands offer everything from luxury overwater bungalows to rustic beach huts.
Cultural Harmony
Witnessing the peaceful coexistence of mosques, Hindu temples, and Buddhist shrines often on the same street is a powerful experience. The local festivals, such as Hari Raya or Deepavali, fill the streets with color and celebration.
Top Experiences
Top-rated tours and activities in Malaysia
Cities & Destinations
Regions
Kuala Lumpur and the Klang Valley
This central hub is home to the capital city, where gleaming skyscrapers like the Petronas Twin Towers overlook colonial-era architecture. It serves as the gateway to the country, offering premier shopping, vibrant nightlife, and the famous Batu Caves.
Penang and the Northwest
Known as the food capital of Malaysia, this region is anchored by George Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with street art and heritage shophouses. It offers a perfect blend of history, coastal views, and legendary hawker stalls.
Malaysian Borneo
Separated from the peninsula by the South China Sea, the states of Sabah and Sarawak offer rugged adventures, from climbing Mount Kinabalu to visiting indigenous longhouses. It is the premier destination for seeing orangutans and exploring vast cave systems.
The East Coast
This region is the heartland of Malay culture, featuring traditional crafts and sleepy fishing villages. It is also the jumping-off point for pristine islands like the Perhentian Islands and Redang, famous for their turquoise waters and seasonal diving.
Langkawi and the Andaman Isles
Located near the Thai border, this archipelago is a designated Global Geopark known for its dramatic limestone cliffs and ancient mangrove forests. It is a popular spot for relaxation, duty-free shopping, and luxury resort stays.
Cities & Destinations:
Best Time to Visit
Malaysia is a year-round destination, but weather patterns differ significantly between the east and west coasts. The best overall window is between February and September to avoid the heaviest monsoon rains on both sides.
Peak Season
Jan, Feb, Jun, Jul, Aug, Dec
Peak season coincides with dry weather on the west coast (December–February) and the east coast (June–August). Major holidays like Chinese New Year and Christmas also drive high demand and prices.
Shoulder Season
Mar, Apr, May, Sep
The transition periods offer a balance of manageable rainfall and fewer crowds. March to May is particularly pleasant for spotting wildlife and enjoying national parks like Taman Negara.
Off-Peak
Oct, Nov
Heavy monsoon rains affect the east coast from November to February, causing many island resorts to close. The west coast experiences its wettest months in September and October.
Getting Around
Malaysia boasts a sophisticated transport network, particularly on the peninsula, featuring electric intercity trains (ETS) and comprehensive urban rail in the capital. Domestic flights are a popular and affordable way to travel between the peninsula and Borneo.
Train
The Electric Train Service (ETS) connects major cities like Kuala Lumpur, Ipoh, and Penang. Urban travel in Kuala Lumpur is served by an efficient LRT, MRT, and Monorail system.
Car
E-hailing via the Grab app is the most reliable way for tourists to travel short distances. Car rentals are available, but an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required for foreign drivers.
Flight
Low-cost carriers offer frequent and very affordable flights between major hubs like Kuala Lumpur (KLIA), Penang, Langkawi, and East Malaysian cities like Kota Kinabalu.
Bus
Long-distance express buses are a budget-friendly option with extensive coverage. The Terminal Bersepadu Selatan (TBS) in Kuala Lumpur serves as the main hub for southern routes.
Food & Drink
Malaysian food culture is a brilliant reflection of its multi-ethnic population, emphasizing bold spices, coconut milk, and fresh aromatics. Dining is a national pastime, with open-air hawker centers serving as the social heart of every community.
Must Try
Nasi Lemak
Often called the national dish, this fragrant rice cooked in coconut milk and pandan leaf is served with spicy sambal, fried anchovies, peanuts, and a boiled egg.
Satay
These are skewers of seasoned meat, typically chicken or beef, grilled over charcoal and served with a rich, spicy peanut dipping sauce and rice cakes called ketupat.
Penang Assam Laksa
A tangy and spicy fish-based noodle soup that features shredded mackerel, tamarind, and pineapple for a complex and refreshing flavor profile.
Char Kway Teow
This popular stir-fried flat noodle dish is cooked over high heat with prawns, cockles, Chinese sausage, and bean sprouts, often infused with a smoky wok hei aroma.
Roti Canai
A flaky, buttery flatbread of Indian origin that is stretched and flipped before being grilled; it is typically served with dhal or meat curry for breakfast.
Teh Tarik
This pulled tea is made by pouring a hot mixture of black tea and condensed milk between two containers to create a frothy top and smooth texture.
Money & Costs
Malaysia offers excellent value for money, with a daily budget of ~$68 / RM266 covering mid-range needs. While luxury experiences are available, street food and public transport remain highly affordable.
Tipping
Tipping is not customary but widely appreciated; many restaurants add a 10% service charge. Government service tax is 6% for food & beverage services (most other taxable services are 8%).
Cards
Credit and debit cards are accepted in most hotels, malls, and restaurants in urban areas. Cash is still essential for street food stalls and local markets.
ATMs
ATMs are widespread. Malaysian payment networks accept 4–6 digit PINs (Malaysian cards often use 6 digits). Cash and/or bearer negotiable instruments worth USD 10,000 or more (or equivalent) must be declared on entry/exit.
Culture & Etiquette
Malaysia is a multicultural but conservative society where modesty and respect for religious traditions are highly valued. Visitors are welcomed warmly, provided they follow local social cues regarding dress and personal conduct.
✓
Remove your shoes before entering someone's home or a place of worship like a mosque or temple.
✓
Use your right hand when eating with your fingers or when giving and receiving items, as the left hand is traditionally considered unclean.
✕
Touch anyone on the head, including children, as the head is regarded as the most sacred part of the body.
✓
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites by ensuring your shoulders and knees are covered; mosques often provide robes for visitors.
✕
Point at people or things with your index finger; instead, use your right thumb with the other fingers folded into the palm.
✓
Ask for permission before taking photographs of people, especially in more rural or traditional areas.
✕
Display intense public affection like heavy kissing, as Malaysian society is generally conservative and such acts can cause offense.
✓
Acknowledge the service charge on your bill; while tipping is not mandatory, leaving small change or rounding up the bill is appreciated.
Safety & Health
Malaysia is generally safe for travelers (Level 1), though increased caution is advised in Eastern Sabah (Level 2) due to kidnapping risks. Petty crimes like bag snatching are common in crowded urban centers.
Tap Water
Not safe to drink
Vaccinations
Standard vaccinations are recommended; a Yellow Fever certificate is mandatory if arriving from a high-risk country. Dengue and Zika precautions are advised.
Common Scams
- ⚠ MDAC Fee Scam: Fraudulent websites charging for the free Malaysia Digital Arrival Card.
- ⚠ Professional Card Game Scam: Friendly locals inviting solo travelers to high-stakes card games.
- ⚠ Motorbike Bag Snatching: Thieves on scooters grabbing bags from pedestrians near roadsides.
- ⚠ Drink Spiking: Occasional reports in nightlife districts leading to robbery or assault.
Private healthcare in cities is of high quality but can be expensive. Comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended for all visitors.
Language
Malay is the official language, but English is widely spoken in cities and used extensively in business and tourism. Most signage is bilingual in Malay and English.
English Spoken: Widely spoken
Key Phrases
| Meaning | Local | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Hello / Peace | Selamat | suh-lah-mat |
| Thank you | Terima Kasih | tuh-ree-mah kah-seh |
| How much? | Berapa? | buh-rah-pah |
| Where is...? | Di mana...? | dee mah-nah |
| Yes | Ya | yah |
| No | Tidak | tee-dahk |
| Excuse me / Sorry | Maaf | mah-ahf |
Visa & Entry
Most foreign travelers must submit the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) within 3 days before arrival; exemptions apply (e.g., Singapore passport holders, diplomatic/official passports, PRs, and long-term pass holders). MDAC is free—use only the official Immigration Department site.
Max Stay
Varies by nationality (commonly 90 days for UK/US/Canada/Australia/most EU; 30 days for many ASEAN; India up to 30 days until 31 Dec 2026; China under mutual visa exemption: 30 days per entry, max 90/180)
Passport Validity
6 months beyond the date of arrival
Visa-free for
Many nationalities receive visa-free entry. Commonly: UK/US/Canada/Australia and most EU citizens up to 90 days; ASEAN nationals usually up to 30 days (except Myanmar). India: visa exemption up to 30 days until 31 Dec 2026. China & Malaysia: mutual visa-exemption agreement effective 17 Jul 2025 allows up to 30 days per entry, max 90 days in any 180-day period.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Malaysia safe for travelers?
How expensive is a trip to Malaysia?
When is the best time to visit Malaysia?
Do I need a visa for Malaysia?
Is English widely spoken in Malaysia?
What should I eat in Malaysia?
How do I get around Malaysia?
Is the tap water safe to drink?
What is the dress code for tourists?
Can I see orangutans in the wild?
Why you can trust this guide
Jan Křenek
35+ countries • 8 years analyzing travel data
Independent developer and travel data analyst based in Prague. 35+ countries visited across Europe and Asia, 8+ years analyzing flight routes, accommodation prices, and seasonal weather patterns.
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