When I say the name 'Malaysia' it doesn't ring too many bells except for its Petronas Twin Towers which used to be one of the tallest buildings in the world and may be Langkawi. So, generally from an Indian traveller point of view, it is not a conventional destination to visit in the first go. We are more accustomed to popular destinations like Thailand, Bali, Vietnam even Laos & Cambodia, but never exploring Malaysia like a thorough traveller. So we went on a 10-day trip to Malaysia and here's what I discovered how beautiful the country is in a nutshell.
Langkawi
Langkawi is an amalgamation of the Malay vocabulary “helang” (eagle) and “kawi” (Sanskrit for the bird's reddish-brown tone).Langkawi is renowned for its unmatched natural landscape and the pearl white sand beaches along with a strategic geographical location. It is a beautiful archipelago of 99 islands located off the northwestern coast of Malaysia in the Andaman Sea. It is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning beaches, lush rainforests and diverse wildlife. The island offers a wide range of dining options, from local street food stalls and night markets to upscale restaurants that cater to various tastes and preferences. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the local flavors and indulge in Langkawi's culinary delights.
Penang
Penang is renowned for its rich history, diverse culture, mouth watering street food, and beautiful architecture. Penang is often referred to as the "food capital" of Malaysia. Its street food scene is legendary, offering a vast array of delicious dishes influenced by Chinese, Malay, and Indian cuisines. The capital city of Penang, George Town, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved colonial architecture, colorful street art, and vibrant cultural scene. Stroll along the streets of George Town to admire the beautifully restored shophouses, visit historic landmarks like Fort Cornwallis and Khoo Kongsi, and explore the bustling markets. I went to Penang just to do two things - Food & Art.
Genting Highlands
Genting Highlands is a popular hill resort located in the Titiwangsa Mountains of Malaysia, approximately 45 kilometers northeast of Kuala Lumpur. Situated at an elevation of about 1,800 meters above sea level, it offers a cool climate and breathtaking views of the surrounding rainforest-covered mountains. Some key features and attractions of Genting Highlands are Theme Parks, Casinos, Genting Skyway, Awana Skyway for more picturesque views and the most underrated Chin Swee Caves Temple. Whether you're looking for adrenaline-pumping rides, exciting gaming experiences, or simply a cool retreat amidst nature, Genting Highlands has something to offer for everyone.
Batu Caves
Batu Caves is a limestone hill and a popular tourist attraction located in the Gombak district of Selangor, Malaysia. Batu Caves is a significant Hindu religious site in Malaysia. It houses several Hindu temples and shrines, the most prominent of which is the Temple Cave, also known as the Cathedral Cave. The cave is dedicated to Lord Murugan, a Hindu deity, and attracts a large number of devotees and tourists. The limestone hill at Batu Caves is known for its impressive natural formations and caverns. The Temple Cave, the largest cave in the complex, features a high ceiling adorned with Hindu statues and vibrant paintings. Visitors have to climb a flight of 272 steps to reach the Temple Cave entrance.Batu Caves is also home to the Dark Cave, an educational and conservation site. Batu Caves is known for its resident population of macaque monkeys. Watch out for these monkeys.
Petronas Twin Towers
The Petronas Twin Towers is an iconic landmark located in Kuala Lumpur, the capital city of Malaysia. The Petronas Twin Towers were designed by the Argentine architect César Pelli and completed in 1998. Standing at a height of 451.9 meters (1,483 feet), they held the title of the world's tallest buildings from 1998 to 2004. The towers are identical and connected by a two-story Skybridge at the 41st and 42nd floors, offering stunning panoramic views of the city. Visitors to the Petronas Twin Towers can access the Skybridge, which offers a breathtaking view of Kuala Lumpur from a height of 170 meters (558 feet). The observation deck is located on the 86th floor of Tower 2 and provides an even higher vantage point to admire the cityscape. In the evening, the Petronas Twin Towers are illuminated with stunning lights, creating a captivating visual display.
Jalan Alor
Jalan Alor is a famous street in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, known for its vibrant food scene and bustling atmosphere. It is a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts and anyone looking to experience the vibrant street food culture of Kuala Lumpur. The street comes alive in the evening with numerous food stalls and restaurants lining both sides of the road. It's a food lover's paradise, where you can find a wide variety of Malaysian and international cuisines. It offers open-air seating, allowing diners to immerse themselves in the lively street atmosphere while enjoying their meals. It is a popular spot for dinner, supper, and late-night eats, making it an ideal destination for those craving delicious food at any time.
Cameron Highlands
Cameron Highlands is a popular hill station located in the state of Pahang, Malaysia. It is known for its cool climate & picturesque landscapes. From tea plantations, beautiful waterfalls, strawberry & vegetable farms to flower gardens, Cameron Highlands has a lot to offer. It is worth visiting for those seeking a peaceful retreat, scenic beauty, and a chance to explore Malaysia's agricultural landscapes. The cool climate, tea plantations, flower gardens, and outdoor activities make it an appealing getaway for nature enthusiasts and those looking for a break from the tropical heat.
Beautiful Mosques, Architecture & Museum
Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Mosque
Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Mosque is a prominent mosque located in Shah Alam, the capital city of the state of Selangor in Malaysia. It is an architectural masterpiece and one of the largest mosques in Southeast Asia. Its design showcases a blend of traditional Islamic and modern architectural elements. The mosque's prominent feature is its striking blue dome, which is one of the largest religious domes in the world. The mosque is often referred to as the "Blue Mosque" due to its striking blue and silver color scheme. The Shah Alam Mosque welcomes visitors from different faiths and cultures. Non-Muslim visitors can explore the mosque's architecture, enjoy the serene surroundings, and learn about Islamic culture and practices. Unfortunately we couldn't visit inside due to Eid and prayer time. However, this majestic architecture took my breath away.
Putra Mosque
Putra Mosque is also known as the Masjid Putra, is a stunning mosque located in Putrajaya, the administrative capital of Malaysia. The mosque's design draws inspiration from various Islamic architectural influences, including Persian, Turkish, and Malay elements. The mosque's most striking feature is its large pink dome, which is one of the defining characteristics of the mosque. The dome is made of rose-tinted granite and is adorned with intricate carvings and calligraphy.
The National Mosque of Malaysia
The National Mosque of Malaysia, known as Masjid Negara in Malay, is a significant religious and architectural landmark located in Kuala Lumpur, the capital city of Malaysia. Visitors can ascend the minaret to enjoy panoramic views of Kuala Lumpur's skyline. The interior of the National Mosque is adorned with intricate Islamic calligraphy and decorative motifs. Its central location makes it easily accessible and a prominent landmark in the city. It holds great significance as a place of worship, a cultural symbol, and a representation of Malaysia's Islamic heritage. Its striking architecture, serene ambiance, and accessibility to visitors make it a must-visit destination for those interested in experiencing Malaysia's rich religious and architectural heritage.
The Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia (IAMM)
The Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia (IAMM) is a prominent museum located in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The museum is located just beside the National Mosque. The Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia is home to one of the largest collections of Islamic art in Southeast Asia. The museum is divided into several galleries, each dedicated to different aspects of Islamic art and culture. The galleries include the Architecture Gallery, Qur'an and Manuscript Gallery, Textiles Gallery, Ceramics Gallery, Jewelry Gallery, and more. These galleries showcase the diversity and richness of Islamic artistic expressions. I study a lot of Persian Illumination manuscripts and I was extremely excited to find the manuscripts I was looking for. The IAMM Library provides a wealth of resources for scholars and researchers interested in Islamic art and related subjects. I have purchased some books which were not available in India.
Malaysia has so much to explore & offer. It is a beautiful country in terms of nature, beaches, islands, architecture, history, art, food and what not. So, the next time you hesitate visiting Malaysia, think twice. Hope you enjoyed reading the blog. The detailed blog of each places will be posted soon where I will explain more in detail about my experience.
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