Malaysia’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Malaysia is more than its kaleidoscopic mega-cities, delicious street food, and decadent retail emporiums. Its vibrantly authentic old-world enclaves, culture-rich experiences, and nature-kissed wonders make it a nation that is endowed with a multitude of UNESCO-listed gems. Here are some things you can’t miss out on!

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jetsun, Bandar Hilir, Melaka, Malaysia – panoramio (2), CC BY-SA 3.0

Melaka City

Once an imperial port city forming the backbone of a 15th-century Sultanate and then a stronghold of Portuguese invaders until they were ousted by the Dutch, this history-riddled town is as pretty as a picture, graced with fairytale vintage buildings in a vivid cacophony of colours and a fusion of Eastern and Western motifs that present an unforgettable site for culture-loving eyes.

Gunung Mulu National Park

If your appetite for soaring heights and dizzying hikes is combined with an appreciation for ancient karst formations rising out of an emerald rainforest ocean like otherworldly towers, you don’t want to miss Gunung Mulu’s natural adventureland of gargantuan caves, intriguing sinkholes, stunning pinnacles, and sinuous rivers.

George Town

Visit George Town for a quaint and artistic prowl through colourful streets rich in multi-cultural delights, such as harmonious pastel-hued Sino-European mansions and shophouses, retro-chic cafes, striking artisan hideouts, and deliciously nature-kissed sanctuaries. If you’re looking for a sophisticated Penang business hotel, venture no further than the likes of Citadines Connect Georgetown Penang.

Mount Kinabalu

Wind through the velvety emerald passes and climb the rugged trails of Malaysia’s highest mountain to attain a sublime vantage of cloud-capped tropical forests and majestic wildlife-rich ecosystems.

Malaysia’s Wildlife Encounters

Malaysia is home to some of the most diverse and oldest wildlife ecosystems in the world and has a great variety of national parks spread across the region. It is also known for its rich biodiversity and diverse ecosystems, making it a fantastic destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Here are the top spots to experience wildlife like no other.

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Alexey Komarov, Penang National Park – panoramio (4), CC BY 3.0

Taman Negara National Park

Located in Peninsular Malaysia, Taman Negara is one of the world’s oldest rainforests. It’s home to a wide variety of wildlife including tigers, Asian elephants, rare birds, and unique plants. Canopy walks and river cruises offer opportunities for wildlife spotting, and you can also find the Rafflesia arnoldii, the largest flower in the world. While not the most pleasant smelling, or the prettiest looking, you should definitely keep an eye out for it.

Penang National Park

Despite its small size, Penang National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including monitor lizards, macaques, and various bird species. The park also features mangrove forests and pristine beaches. It should be an easy visit for you if you’re staying at a hotel in Penang. Georgetown contains some of the most comfortable accommodation options for you to begin your wildlife adventure, with properties such as Citadines Connect Georgetown Penang providing welcoming lodging for the weary traveller.

Mount Kinabalu National Park

Mount Kinabalu National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most iconic natural destinations in Malaysia. Located in the Malaysian state of Sabah on the island of Borneo, the park is known for its incredible biodiversity and the majestic Mount Kinabalu, Southeast Asia’s highest peak. The park’s namesake and centerpiece, Mount Kinabalu stands at 4,095 meters (13,435 feet) above sea level. It is a popular destination for hikers and climbers, offering various trekking routes suitable for different skill levels.

Malaysia’s Rich History

Malaysia is a country full of culture and the wonders of an exotic civilization, including the peak of natural beauty, gorgeous historical architecture, and more simply waiting to be discovered. Proudly displaying this in the form of four UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the country is packed to the brim with excellent examples of the splendour of Mother Earth both made by man and naturally occurring.

Victoria Clock Tower Penang
Gryffindor, Victoria Clock Tower Penang Dec 2006 001, CC BY-SA 3.0

Melaka Heritage City

Sitting on the mouth of the Malacca River, Melaka City, sometimes spelt as Malacca City, is one of two historic cities that have earned a reputation and standing as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, due to the history of the city reaching back to the 14th Century. A Malay trading port that garnered influence and wealth, Melaka was the centre of an Islamic Sultanate, but little remains of this particular era today, as the city was soon conquered by a Portuguese armada in the 1500s and the colonial architecture is a great sight to see.

George Town Heritage City

The second of the two UNESCO heritage cities, the city of George Town lies further to the North, on the island of Penang off the coast of Malaysia. Founded by the historic East India Trading Company in the year 1786, there are many sights to see of the Colonial era, such as the Queen Victoria Memorial Clock Tower, Fort Cornwallis, and more in the way of storefronts and residences. Consider visiting George Town from your Bukit Bintang hotel.

Mount Kinabalu

Located near the city of Kota Kinabalu on the island of Borneo, Mount Kinabalu is the tallest mountain in Malaysia, earning its spot as a World Heritage Site. The climb is a dazzling experience, beginning in the beautiful lowland rainforest and eventually giving way to the more alpine shrubbery typical of mountain areas. The climb is not too difficult, and the sights are something to behold. The island is also within reasonable reach of the mainland, so you can plan ahead for your stay at a lodging like the Travelodge Bukit Bintang.

Gunung Mulu National Park

Within the Sarawak state of Malaysia lies Gunung Mulu Park, also located on the island of Borneo. An incredible landscape of limestone and dense jungle, Mount Mulu is host to an extensive cave system as well, the Clearwater Cave system which ranks 8th on the world’s longest cave systems. Much of the system remains unexplored, so you can even go on an adventure with the proper guides and resources.

5 ultimate outdoor adventures to conquer in Malaysia

For a holiday submerged in pure action and unending ecstasy, do make a note of these leisure destinations in Malaysia which are reputed for being rewarding and fulfilling.

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Wiki Farazi, Bukit Jugra 2, CC0 1.0

Paraglide at Bukit Jugra

Glide over the former royal capital of Selangor under the watchful eyes of the Malaysia Paragliding and Hang Gliding Association for a sensational view of Jugra’s lush green environs. Head straight for the Bukit Jugra Lighthouse during March and September, pay RM200 per head and strap yourself in for a journey of a lifetime.

Enjoy rock climbing at Batu Caves

Avail the services of Gua Damai Extreme Park en route to overcoming your fear of heights and mountainous environments. Have yourself a rock climbing experience where you can pick and choose from the Damai Wall which is ideal for beginners or the Nyamuk Wall which would test the resolve of even the most skilled rock climber.

Zipline from Gaya Island to Sapi Island

Access the longest island zipline in the world that will have you excellently placed to embrace an adrenaline rush never felt before. Delight in the scenic wonders of Sabah for 235 meters while travelling at 55km an hour.

Summit Malaysia’s tallest mountain

If you’re someone who never says “No” to a challenge, then climbing Mount Kinabalu will be your perfect tonic. Littered with boulders, slippery routes and wooden staircases, patrons will need to have their wits about them at every stage of the trip. Facilitators such as Amazing Borneo Tours can be consulted ahead of booking a hike to one of Malaysia’s astounding sights.

Scuba dive off Mabul Island

Be one with barracudas, jackfish and an array of marine species that inhabit the seas off Mabul Island as part of a scuba diving expedition. Arrive between April to December where you will have the best visibility and an opportunity for underwater photography as well. In the event you seek a sound base to head back to in the city, consider booking with Travelodge City Centre which is one of the hotels in Kuala Lumpur City Centre.

A nature lover’s guide to the Malaysian rainforest

Move away from the bustle of the city and its complementing skyscrapers towards areas of this Southeast Asian nation that will take your breath away with the pleasures and pageantry on show.

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anonymous, Kinabalu park HQ, CC BY-SA 3.0

Trek to Kinabalu Park

Cut through dense thickets while keeping your eyes peeled for sudden movements that are bound to fill your gaze at the picturesque Kinabalu Park. In fact, once you’re done basking in the company of hot springs, various species of ferns and orchids, and the forest canopy, toy with the thought of ascending the summit of Mount Kinabalu which rises to well over 4,000 meters in the air.

Retrace ancient times at Taman Negara, Pahang

A sense of isolation will follow your every step as you set foot within the pristine, prehistoric rainforests that cover Taman Negara, Pahang. With a proud history that dates back some 130 million years, the curious at heart will be met with the prospect of catching fleeting glimpses of the foliage with the aid of a simple, suspended rope bridge that cuts through the heart of the rainforest.

Marvel at the treasure trove which is Gunung Mulu National Park

Characterised by a dark green canopy that watches over every inhabitant that lives and breeds within Gunung Mulu National Park, the said attraction is a shimmering jewel that has won fame as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Home to one of the world’s largest limestone cave systems, the 53,000 hectares that scatter the Park is a thriving habitat of life and colour. These include 4,000 varieties of fungus, 1,500 species of flowering plants, 281 butterfly species, 262 kinds of birds, 75 mammal species, and a further 50 variants of reptiles.

Have the ride of a lifetime on the Kampar River

If you desire to pair the adrenaline-drenched pastime of whitewater rafting with exploring rainforests, then head straight for Kempar River in Perak. Once done, you can beeline back to the city and reside at Travelodge Bukit Bintang which is a modern hotel in Bukit Bintang KL.

Experience the Thrills of Malaysia – Exhilarating Experiences for the Adrenaline Seeker

There would be an array of exhilarating activities available for visitors to Malaysia; the variety of activities on offer would mean that there would be something for everyone.

 Jet skiing

Jet skiing would be a great choice for thrill seekers in Malaysia; what could be more fun than piloting your watercraft at speed over the waters? While it may take time to master this water sport, once you have got the hang of it, jet skiing would be a delight. When seeking the best hotels in Malaysia from which you could enjoy jet skiing, consider the Sepang property of Avani Hotels & Resorts.

 Scuba diving

Scuba diving would always be an entrancing experience at this destination as you would encounter appealing conditions for this activity here. Whilst scuba diving in the waters of Malaysia, you may experience shimmering clear waters and encounter attractive corals, interesting kinds of marine creatures and so on making it a marvellous activity indeed.

Image by Lourdes_B from Pixabay

 Tandem skydiving

There would be nothing quite like skydiving to delight and entertain the thrill seeker. Tandem skydiving would usually provide you with the opportunity to enjoy skydiving strapped to an experienced instructor. As you might expect, this experience would be a thrilling and unforgettable experience for those who crave adrenaline and excitement.

 White water rafting

Another wonderful activity for adventure enthusiasts would be white water rafting which could be experienced at various localities in Malaysia. In fact, you would find white water rafting locations in the country that would be suitable for rafters of varied levels of experience, ranging from first-timers to seasoned experts.

Walk along Jalan Tan Hiok Nee

Jalan Tan Hiok Nee is named after a Chinese cloth peddler who became an influential figure and grew quite wealthy later in life. It is home to many old and new businesses that breathes life into the street. Located nearby to many a Johor hotel the likes of Berjaya Waterfront Hotel, it is more than just a heritage site.

Becoming a Heritage Site

Previously an old-fashioned but picturesque street, it was transformed into a historic venue by the Malaysian government in 2009.

Visit Johor Bahru Chinese Heritage Museum

Paying a small entrance fee, the Chinese Heritage Museum takes you through the journey of the Chinese settlement in Johor Bahru. Using audio guides that contain fascinating stories, you can tour the museum at your own pace.

Chongkian, Johor Bahru Chinese Heritage Museum, CC BY-SA 4.0

Enjoy Delicious Coffee at Art52 Gallery

Open from 9 O’ clock onwards throughout the week, Art52 Gallery is truly a gem at the Jalan Tan Hiok Nee. Preserving the historic charm of the old building, the owner has succeeded in converting the space into a simple, low-profile café that exudes genuineness.

Tantalize Your Taste Buds

Walking along the street, one would come across several eateries that offer a wide variety of food. The street is such a great place to become acquainted with the scrumptiousness of the traditional cuisine.

Terence Ong, Johor laksa, CC BY-SA 3.0

Traveler’s Guide to Sepang, Malaysia

Until the KL International Airport was built in Sepang, and several other projects such as the Sepang F1 racing Track and Cyberjaya came up here, it was known to be a sleepy town that was earlier into rubber plantation.

Getting in Sepang

Since there is an International Airport located here, you can now enter this city by plane. For the journey from the Airport to your Sepang hotel, it’s always better to hire a car and travel, as it’s safer and faster too.

Things to see and do

Sepang International Circuit which is located close to properties such as Avani Sepang Goldcoast Resort is one main attraction in the city, that is never missed by tourists generally. In addition, there are also other places such as Bagan Lalang Beach which you can visit during your days there.

Craig, Sepang international circuit qualifying 2CC0 1.0

Events in Sepang

In addition to the world-famous Sepang International F1 & Moto GP Racing, there are also some other events happening in Sepang. Thaipusam and the Chinese New Year are just some of them.

Keeping in touch is easy here

In Sepang, dealing with the internet is always easy and fast. You find Wi-Fi hotspots in almost all shopping malls and food courts. Buy a local SIM card and make local calls at cheap rates too.

 

Top Places to Visit in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

The capital of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur offers plenty of adventures for the whole family. Here are some of the key attractions in KL well worth visiting on your holiday.

Petronas Twin Towers

Iconic and inspiring, the Petronas Twin Towers is a stunning modern marvel that spans a total of 88 storeys. When searching for the best hotels & resorts in Malaysia, do look to stay close to this attraction which offers amazing panoramas from the Skybridge that connects the two towers.

Image Credit: Berjaya Hotels & Resorts

Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC)

One of the most dynamic areas in the city, the Kuala Lumpur City Centre is where you will not only find the Petronas Twin Towers but a host of other attractions too. Within easy reach of many city properties including those belonging to Berjaya Hotels & Resorts, these sites include the Suria KLCC Shopping Complex, Petrosains, The Discovery Centre and Aquaria KLCC.

Jakub MichankowKuala Lumpur City CentreCC BY 2.0

Bukit Bintang

One of the key areas for shopaholics, Bukit Bintang is home to some of the city’s most popular shopping hubs. Retail therapy abounds in this locale where you can shop to your heart’s content at malls the likes of Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, Berjaya Times Square, Fahrenheit 88 and Sungei Wang Plaza.

Patrice78500Bukit Bintang, marked as public domain, more details on Wikimedia Commons

Central Market

One of the historic attractions in Kuala Lumpur, the Central Market dates back to the 1880s; within this heritage site, you will find a number of traders selling souvenirs, batiks, handicrafts, sculptures, artworks, clothing and more. It also has food stalls which give you a chance to sample some yummy local dishes.

 

Auburn Silver is a travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world. Google+

Hike to the Highest Mountain on Tioman: Gunung Kajang

A hike to the highest mountain on Tioman – Gunung Kajang is undoubtedly the next adventure for you if you are an adventure seeker in life. The journey is difficult and requires a lot of your energy, but the breath-taking views you get right at the top of the mountain are priceless, and the hard hike is worth it.

Image by Free-Photos from Pixabay 

Mount Kajang

If you stay at a Tioman resort, the likes of Berjaya Tioman Resort, Mount Kajang cannot be too far away. The peak of the mountain is an extinct volcano that dwells in the clouds and this is the whole purpose of the hike too. The special fact about this is that this mountain which is covered by a dense rain forest has a volcanic past.

The trek up

There are not many set trails to the mountain. On your way to it, you may see a noticeable difference between the flora you get to find in the mainland and those you find here. Try to keep talking to a minimal and take in the beautiful surroundings on your trek up.

Up at the summit

The reason we recommend this difficult hike to you is the relaxation you get to feel when you go up the summit. There are also some mysterious caves that you can explore and then the beauty of Tioman island is all yours to feel and enjoy.

Things to keep in mind

It is always better if you have this climb with a crew and especially with the presence of an experienced guide. The general rules do apply for this hike too where you can’t leave anything other than footprints when you come out of the premises.

 

Auburn Silver is a travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world. Google+