The tropical rainforest paradise
Malaysia is home to large rainforests, rafflesia flower, the famous orangutans and many more rare species of animals. I have been able to visit only the cities with work trips so far and would like to go back to experience the rainforests, mountains and wildlife. Prominent places to visit in Malaysia include capital Kuala Lumpur, Langkawi, Borneo forests and volcanoes
Most people end up visiting only Kuala Lumpur. As one of the first countries you visit outside, the enthusiasm keeps you going, but the real Malaysia is in smaller cities and towns. Frankly, Kuala Lumpur is ok to skip in case it is the only city you are planning to visit in the country- the sites are not that unique. Take my advice with a pinch of salt as I am not a city person to begin with
Best time to visit
It depends on exact places you want to visit with Malaysia being quite spread out. For areas around the capital, May- August, January- February is good time
Visa
Malaysia is temporarily visa free for Indians. You need to enter a pre arrival form online. You still need to get your passport stamped which can take an hour’s queue at immigration if arriving during busy hours
Getting In
Kuala Lumpur is the hub for Malaysian Airlines, quite well connected to other Asian cities. Malaysian Airlines is quite safe to travel, it just got a bit unlucky at times.
Currency: Malaysian Ringgit
You can get cash from India, but cards work better as they are accepted everywhere
Getting around
For major attractions, public transport is good enough to reach. You can take cabs through apps like Grab if you want to move around say between Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya. Airport is directly connected to city centre through KLIA Express train and bus
Places to see around Kuala Lumpur
- Batu caves: Dedicated to Lord Murugan. You can take monorail from Imbi to KL Sentral and the KTM ride from KL Sentral to Batu Caves at under <$3
- Petronas towers: The iconic twin towers in the KLCC complex
- Putrajaya: Houses administrative buildings like ministries and colorful Putrajaya Mosque
- Fireflies at Kuala Selengor
I took bus #100 from Medan Pasar (HAB Lebuh Pudu) to Kuala Selengor. Local taxis operate in Kuala Selengor to go from hotel to the jetty.
The boat tour ride to see the fireflies was pleasant. The count was not what you see on photos, but the experience was still good enough
Where I stayed in Kuala Selengor
Melawati Ria Hotel: The ratings were on lower side, but I chose the place because of its location proximity to public transport stops
Where I stayed in Kuala Lumpur
Serenity hostel which now seems to be closed
How much does it cost
Budget $50-70 USD per day excluding flights
- Flights: $250-300
- Hotels: $30-50 per night
- Food: $20 per day
- Insurance: $15
- Visa: Free as of now