Start your journey in Malaysia's capital, Kuala Lumpur. Visit the Petronas Twin Towers, standing tall at 452 meters, and take a walk through KLCC Park. Enjoy the city's bustling atmosphere and visit Bukit Bintang to indulge in its shopping scene.
Escape the heat and head to the cooler climate of the Cameron Highlands. Explore the area's tea plantations and sample some of the freshly brewed teas. Visit the Butterfly Farm and the Boh Tea Centre to learn more about the process of tea-making.
Next, head to the island of Penang for food and culture. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of George Town and admire the street art murals. Sample local dishes such as char kway teow and laksa at hawker centers along Gurney Drive.
Take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life and head to the idyllic island of Langkawi. Visit Kilim Karst Geoforest Park for a scenic boat ride through the mangroves and limestone caves. Soak up the sun at Cenang Beach, and take a cable car ride to the top of Mount Mat Cincang.
Experience the beauty of Borneo in Kota Kinabalu. Visit the Mari Mari Cultural Village to learn about the indigenous cultures of Sabah. Take a day trip to Kinabalu Park, Malaysia's first UNESCO World Heritage site, and hike to the summit of Mount Kinabalu.
Continue your Borneo adventure by heading to Sandakan. Visit the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre to witness the orangutan feeding sessions. Take a river cruise along the Kinabatangan River and spot animals such as proboscis monkeys and crocodiles.
Wrap up your Borneo adventure in Kuching, also known as the "Cat City". Visit Bako National Park, home to proboscis monkeys and various wildlife species. Take a day trip to Annah Rais Hot Springs for a relaxing soak.
End your trip where it all began. Spend your final days in Malaysia exploring the Batu Caves and its iconic Hindu temple. Shop at the vibrant street markets of Petaling Street and enjoy a meal at Jalan Alor.+
Malaysia's transportation system includes buses, trains, and flights. Buses are a popular option and are relatively cheap with frequent schedules. Trains are comfortable but can be more expensive. Domestic flights are available for longer distances and can save time but can be costly. Taxis and ride-hailing services are also an option in urban areas.
Estimated travel costs: RM 500
If you have more time, consider visiting other parts of East Malaysia, such as Sabah's Danum Valley Conservation Area, or head down to Johor Bahru to visit neighbouring Singapore. If you have less time, skip one or two destinations and spend more time in Kuala Lumpur or Penang.
Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) is the main hub for international and domestic flights. The airport is located 45 kilometers from the city centre.