You can visit these unique places in Malaysia from New York.
Planning to fly from New York and visit Malaysia? The country is one of the most underrated destinations, but it has a lot to offer. From ancient monuments, historical sites, stunning islands, picturesque parks, and tranquil beaches, Malaysia has something for everybody. Home to incredibly diverse cultures and traditions, this country is painted with beautiful adventures and is guaranteed to enhance a holiday experience. Travelers should also visit the country’s off-the-beaten places to get an in-depth insight into this Asian nation. Check out these unique places in Malaysia if visiting from New York.
Believed to be among Southeast Asian largest and most stunning temples, it is always delightful to explore Kek Lok Si Temple. Home to beautiful archways and sculptures depicting the teachings of Buddhism, Kek Lok Si Temple is one of the most unique places to visit in the country. The temple also hosts murals and images representing Chinese cultures and traditions and is known for housing pagodas. With an incredible history dating back to the 1890s, Kek Lok Si Temple tells a story that every traveler should experience. Flying from New York and staying in Malaysia to explore this unique destination is totally worth it.
Gunung Mulu National Park got its name from Mount Mulu and is a great spot to go caving or trekking as one explores the stunning nature that borders the park. The park is full of incredible trails suitable for hikers of all abilities. The gorgeous caves, as well as numerous bats inhabiting them, are the park's major draw. The caves are nestled deep in the bordering rainforest. Measuring 115 m high and 600 m long, not only are they the longest cave system in Southeast Asia but also the largest cave passage in the world. There is a lot to experience here, including mountain biking, kayaking, and strolling – and visiting from New York would offer vacationers lots of memories to take home.
Belum Rainforest is one of the off-beat destinations to explore on a Malaysia vacation. Believed to have lived for more than 130 million years, this rainforest is among the world's oldest and is one of Malaysia’s most impressive hidden gems. Nestled near the gorgeous Temenggor Lake, Belum Rainforest is home to some of the most exotic wildlife and indigenous people. The rainforest boasts several campsites, trails, and travelers can have a wonderful boating experience in the neighboring lake. Belum Rainforest is definitely one of the most unique places in Malaysia if visiting from New York.
Found within Semporna Archipelago, this magnificent city is a beautiful place to spend a perfect Malaysian holiday. Semporna has been one of the country’s major draws for years and attracts tourists from all corners of the planet, thanks to its friendly locals and picture-perfect attractions, including the city's main mosque, which is stunningly glowing in green and white colors. Exploring the city's local markets and getting an insight into the lifestyle of the Bajau people are some of the best things to do here. Flying from New York to this charming city is worth it.
Located less than an hour's drive from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia’s Capital, Kuala Selangor is a charming fishing village that is one of the most unique places to visit in the country. A boat ride is one of the best things to do, especially after dusk towards the mangroves. Vacationers will be thrilled to experience millions of fireflies between the trees brightly lit up. The village's park resort, Firefly, is one of its most unique attractions and is worth flying from New York to experience.
Boasting a fascinating culture, historical restaurants, colorful shophouses, and gorgeous streets lined with several amenities, Ipoh is one of the best cities to explore in Malaysia. The city is known for its fantastic food scene, but it has numerous things to see and do as well. Its Lost World of Tambun water theme park would be an incredible place to explore as a family as it has endless activities for kids to enjoy. The city is also brimming with lots of museums and temples where vacationers can connect with the local culture and religion. Visit Malaysia from New York and have an unforgettable tour experience in Ipoh.
The sound of hot springs is thrilling to every regular tourist and always features in many Instagram posts. Just a few miles from Ipoh are these gorgeous Banjaran Hot Springs, nestled between limestone hills spanning 260 million years. The area is surrounded by magnificent waterfalls and tropical rainforests and is bound to offer an unforgettable luxurious experience. The hot springs are part of the Banjaran Hot Springs Retreat, a resort dedicated to offering all kinds of treatment, and include a pampering spa and a wellness center. Fly from New York to Banjaran and enjoy a lavish treatment in this gorgeous retreat.
Chemorong Forest Reserve is one of the most unique places in Malaysia to visit from New York. Home to spectacular natural pools and gorgeous rivers, this forest reserve is one of the least visited destinations in the country, giving vacationers a mind-blowing environment full of lush greenery to explore. It is one of the best places to relax and enjoy peace, thanks to its serene ambiance. Travelers can access the forest on a hike, which takes over an hour, but the beauty surrounding it, including the breathtaking waterfalls, makes it all worth it. The forest boasts several areas for picnicking and camping. Add to the beautiful river pools, and have an exhilarating tour experience.
Kundasang cannot go without mention when listing the most unique places to explore in Malaysia. The small enchanting town has a myriad of attractions and things to do, making it a must-see on a Malaysian vacation. The town boasts an incredible natural beauty, evident in its gorgeous Mount Kinabalu, which offers unmatched views of the surrounding. Kundasang War Memoria is one of the town's major draws and the perfect place to get an insight into the local's history and culture. Visit Malaysia from New York and experience the wonders of this small quaint town.
Kenyir Lake is the largest artificial lake in Southeast Asia. Bordered by more than 300 beautiful islands, this lake is linked to about 25 waterfalls and 30 rivers – and is one of the most unique places to explore in Malaysia. Nestled near beautiful limestone caves and lush rainforests, the lake boasts over 25 fish species and is an excellent spot to go birdwatching, canoeing, and boating. With its gorgeous surrounding, the lake creates endless photo opportunities for vacationers in love with nature. Hiking the hilltops while taking in the spectacular views of the natural landscapes is one of the best things to do. Flying from New York to Malaysia would be worth it.
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Quinter Auma is a travel writer based in Kenya. She has written travel articles on destinations across Africa and beyond. Her writing is inspired by her passion to travel to new destinations and inspire others to get out of their comfort zones and explore the beauty of this world – whether they travel around the world or in their own countries.