To help inspire or plan your trip to Malaysia, some of its major attractions for travellers are shown below, including some of the best natural, historical, cultural and adventure sites in the country. These include all of UNESCO World Heritage Sites for Malaysia which represent the best of the world's cultural and natural heritage.
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Go to Region of Malaysia-> Malaysian Peninsula - Borneo - Sarawak

Malaysian Peninsula - Historical attractions

Melaka
Melaka
Melaka

Melaka was founded in the 15th century and soon became an important trading port on the route between the Indian and Pacific Oceans. It underwent three successive periods of European rule (Portuguese, Dutch and British) before gaining independence with Malaysia in 1957. This historic heritage and a cosmopolitan cultural mix makes Melaka a fascinating town to explore. Attractions of note include the tomb of Huang Kasturi, Cheng Hoon Teng Temple (the oldest Chinese temple in Malaysia) and the Kampung Kling Mosque but Melaka's highlight is wandering the old, narrow streets, shopping for antiques and tasting the distinctive Nyonya cuisine at the many open air restaurants.

UNESCO World Heritage Site: Melaka and George Town, Historic Cities of the Straits of Malacca

Penang

Penang Island, just off the north-western coast of Malaysia, has been dubbed the "Pearl of the Orient". Its capital George Town was an historic trading port and was ruled by the British between the 18th and 20th centuries. With one of the most diverse populations in Asia, it's a fascinating town to wander and explore its rich cultural heritage and sample the huge variety of cuisines available. Sites of interest include Fort Cornwallis (built in 1808 to defend the island) and the Chinese Clan bridge houses built on stilts. Elsewhere on Penang you can visit Wat Chayamangkalaram, a Thai architectural Buddhist Temple which houses a 32 metre reclining Buddha, the majestic Kek Lok Si Temple and the Botanical Gardens as well as numerous villages, beaches and mosques and Buddhist temples.

UNESCO World Heritage Site: Melaka and George Town, Historic Cities of the Straits of Malacca

Lenggong Valley

Lenggong Valley is home to four archaeological sites which constitute one of the longest records of early man in a single locality, and the oldest outside the African continent. Spanning 2 million years with remains from the Palaeolithic, Neolithic and Metal ages, the site features open-air and cave sites with Palaeolithic tool workshops.

UNESCO World Heritage Site: Archaeological Heritage of the Lenggong Valley



Borneo - Sarawak - Historical attractions

Kuching

Kuching is the capital of Sarawak and is a charming city with a wealth of historic buildings and a vibrant mix of different ethnic groups. Its attractions include the Astana - a 19th century white palace that is home to the Governor of Sarawak, Fort Margherita - located on a hill opposite the waterfront which protected the town from invaders and the Sarawak Museum which has excellent historic and ethnological exhibits. Kuching is also a wonderful city for strolling in its historic centre and along the waterfront as well as being a great spot for buying souvenirs. Close to Kuching is the Sarawak Cultural Village where you can learn about Sarawak's many different ethnic groups.