Offbeat Places in Malaysia: Top 10 Travel Secrets

Malaysia is best known for dazzling cities like Kuala Lumpur and George Town. But there are so many offbeat places in Malaysia awaiting nature lovers and adventurers. We’ve put together a list of 10 secret destinations that make us want to book a ticket to Malaysia this very moment!

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Offbeat places in Malaysia

1. Flashing Firelies, Kampung Kuantan

Thousands of Malaysian fireflies blink together in the night, making for a marvellous study in synchronicity. Head to the mangroves of Bagan Krian and Tanjung Piai or the beaches of Cherating and Kemaman for an experience you’ll never forget.

2. Fort Kempas, Port Dickson

The 15th century tomb of Ulama Sheikh Ahmad Makhtum lies at Fort Kempas in the town of Port Dickson. It’s famous for its carved megaliths, associated with numerous legends among the locals. It’s worth noting that Port Dickson hotels can be cheaper than those in bigger cities.

3. BOH Tea Plantations, Cameron Highlands

Spanning over 8000 acres, this is the largest tea plantation in Southeast Asia. The location is stunning, and offers breath-taking views of the mountains and highlands. You’ll pass through the Mossy Forest and the peak of Gunung Brinchang mountain on a tour of the region. It’s free to visit the tea factory.

4. Niah Caves, Sarawak

Part of the Niah National Park, these caves house gigantic underground caverns that are impossibly tall. Excavations in the 1950s and 60s threw up evidence of 40,000 year old human remains in the caves. Today, the caves are also used for birds’ nest collection.

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5. Mabul and Sipadan Islands

These islands are probably the most romantic and untouched spots in Malaysia. And to protect them, only a limited number of tourists are allowed to visit. The water reflects the sky like a painting and there’s only beauty and perfection for miles around.

6. Tanjung Tuan, Port Dickson

Tanjung Tuan is a wildlife reserve that also happens to sport a gorgeous coastline. If you like bird-watching, you should definitely make it here. Tanjung Tuan is also home to a 16th century lighthouse called Cape Rachado.

7. The Pinnacle of Gunung Mulu

Reaching the pinnacle involves an arduous 2-3 day trek through dangerous uphill terrain and dense forest. But if you do get there, you’ll be treated to otherworldly views of jagged spires made of limestone rising into the sky. Along the way, climbers are also exposed to exotic pitcher plants, toucans and caves.

8. Rainbow Waterfall, Sungai Lembing

Malaysia is full of natural wonders and the Rainbow Waterfall in the hills of Sungai Lembing is definitely a delightful one. It is one of the few places where one is assured of seeing a pretty rainbow stretching from one side of the waterfall to the other.

9. Pulau Rawa, Johor

Pulau Rawa is a relatively unexplored island near the coast of Johor. The spotless white beaches are perfect for sunbathing by day. And by night, one can lie on the sand and star-gaze for hours on end. Beautiful coral reefs are a striking feature of Pulau Rawa.

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10. Army Museum Port Dickson

A museum may seem like an odd choice for this list but the Army Museum in Port Dickson boasts a subterranean tunnel, an impressive collection of army vehicles and even a memorial fountain. Did we mention that entry is free?

Here are some more secret getaways in Malaysia you can explore:

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