Highlights of West Malaysia: from Kuala Lumpur to Langkawi
AsiaMalaysia is a diverse country with beautiful nature and charming cities. The people are also very friendly. The route in this blog post takes you past all the highlights of Malaysia's west coast. It combines cities, beaches, and lush greenery.
Transport in Malaysia
In Malaysia, you can easily travel from A to B by bus. Bus stations can be quite large, making it difficult to know exactly where you need to go. Fortunately, you can ask at the reception or information desk for advice. Buses run both between cities and to ports. You can easily travel to the islands of Malaysia by boat. For shorter distances, you can take a taxi. In the capital, Kuala Lumpur, it's also convenient to use the train.
Kuala Lumpur: an interesting mix of old and new
You can travel directly from the airport to Malaysia's vibrant capital by train. Trains depart every fifteen minutes and quickly reach the city center.
Where to stay?
Many backpackers choose to stay in ChinaTown, Bukit Bintang (city center), or the Chow Kit district.
Axon Residence
Axon Residence has nice clean rooms and a swimming pool with a view over the city.
View on Google Maps
1000 Miles
You will find simple clean rooms and beds in this hostel which is very centrally located.
View on Google MapsThings to do in Kuala Lumpur
Kuala Lumpur's city center offers an interesting mix of old and new: tall skyscrapers, historic buildings, large shopping malls, and countless food stalls. Be sure to visit the Jalan Alor and Petaling street markets when you're in Kuala Lumpur. Kuala Lumpur is generally very clean and has a green character. For some peace and quiet, visit the Perdana Botanical Gardens, just outside the city center.
One of Kuala Lumpur's most iconic sights is the Batu Caves. The caves are about a twenty-minute drive from the city center. The largest cave is an impressive 100 meters high and 400 meters wide and is accessible via a staircase with beautiful colored steps. Another famous attraction is the Petronas Twin Towers, which you can visit from Tuesday to Sunday. It's advisable to book tickets online in advance and arrive early.
The paradise island of Pulau Pangkor
From the TBS bus station in Kuala Lumpur, you can travel to Pulau Pangkor via Lumut. The entire journey takes about four and a half hours. The bus station is so large that it's almost comparable to a lage airport. The buses are air-conditioned, and you can store your luggage in the hold. From Lumut or Marina Island, you can take a boat to the paradise island of Pulau Pangkor (RM14).
Where to stay?
The island's largest town, "Pangkor Town," is on the east coast, where the boat also docks. However, the island's best beaches are on the west coast, where it's also recommended to find your accommodation. Many pink taxis are available at the harbor to take you to the other side of the island. All the fishing villages are located along the coast, as the interior is impassable due to the dense jungle.
Vagary Pangkor
At Vagary you can sleep in a 'beach house' within walking distance of the restaurants and the beach.
View on Google MapsThings to do on the island
When I think back to Pulau Pangkor, I especially remember the clear blue water and deserted white beaches. We traveled in September and often had the beach to ourselves. The island was quiet, and not all restaurants were open in the evenings. If you're looking for a more lively and lively experience, it's best to visit on weekends or during other times of the year. Keep in mind that it can get very busy during Malaysian holidays, so it's wise to book your accommodation in advance.
Renting a scooter on the island is recommended. The island is only about eight kilometers long, making it easy to circle the entire island. Along the way, you'll encounter monkeys and spot the impressive hornbill birds. If you don't see them, head to one of the restaurants around dinnertime, where the birds often come to feed on melon.
Nipah Deli
Here you can eat delicious (fresh fish) with a beautiful view over the beach.
View on Google Maps
The beautiful nature of the Cameron Highlands
From Lumut, you can reach the town of Ipoh by bus in two hours. From there, buses run daily to Tanah Rata, near the Cameron Highlands. This journey takes about 2 to 3 hours, depending on traffic.
Things to do at the Cameron Highlands
The Cameron Highlands are known as Malaysia's tea region. A visit to one of the tea plantations is highly recommended. You can also visit a strawberry farm or a butterfly farm. Around the green plateaus of the Cameron Highlands, there are several hiking trails where you can discover waterfalls, forests, and tropical flowers. This area is much cooler than the rest of Malaysia, so don't forget to bring a sweater.
Admire art in Penang
From the Cameron Highlands, it's about a five-hour drive to Penang Island. Travel to Butterworth and then take a boat to George Town, the island's largest and most popular city.
Things to do in George Town and Penang
George Town, known for its street art, is a great place for art lovers. As you stroll through the city, you're guaranteed to come across some artwork. Google Maps even provides a map showing all the street art locations. In Penang, don't miss a visit to Clan Jetties, a unique floating fishing village with several shops. Penang also has beaches, such as those at Batu Ferringhi, but the beaches you've seen earlier on this route, like those on Pulau Pangkor, are probably more beautiful. For a bite to eat or a drink, visit the lively Love Lane.
My tips for George Town:
Holy Guacamole
This Mexican restaurant is located on Love Lane and serves delicious tacos, among other things.
View on Google MapsRope Walk Guest House
In this guesthouse you will find neat rooms and very friendly staff.
View on Google Maps
Upside Down museum
This is a fun activity for a rainy day. In each room, the staff will take a photo or video with your own camera or phone.
View on Google Maps
Active and relaxing on Langkawi
From Penang, you can reach Langkawi by ferry in about three hours.
Things to do at Langkawi
In western Langkawi lies the beautiful Pantai Cenang beach, home to many restaurants and bars. This is the ideal spot to relax or watch the sunset. If you're looking for a quieter beach, Tanjung Rhu is the place to be. Besides relaxing on the beach, Langkawi also offers numerous active pursuits, such as kayaking, mangrove boating, and parasailing. You can also take the cable car (skycab) to a higher point and enjoy spectacular views of the island. Many travelers explore the island by scooter. In the evenings, there's a market at various locations, where you can sample delicious Malaysian dishes.
Indiana vegan Cafe
At Indian Cafe you can get delicious smoothie bowls, burgers or sandwiches. They also offer yoga!
View on Google Maps
Other places
If you're looking to explore even more, consider cities like Malacca and Ipoh, or Taman Negara National Park, known for its jungle.
If you also want to explore the east coast of West Malaysia, the Perhentian Islands or Tioman Island are great additions to your itinerary. Note that the Perhentian Islands are only accessible outside the monsoon season. They can get very busy during peak season, so it's wise to book your accommodation in advance.
Whether you are surprised by the vibrant city life, the beautiful nature or heavenly beaches: West Malaysia offers something for everyone.
Useful information
Official language: Malay
Currency: Malaysian ringgit (RM)
Area: 330,803 km²
Best time to travel: Due to the monsoon season, the west coast is best visited outside of our summer holiday season (July-August).
