Malaysia’s hill stations are a stunning marvel of nature, so start planning for your holidays to one of these scenic highlands. It is incredibly refreshing to learn that Malaysia has a variety of beautiful, green hill stations all covered in clouds. The low temperatures and gorgeous sceneries of these mystical highlands attract tourists from around the world. These hill stations are a perfect escape from the scorching, humid heat of Malaysia’s urban areas. They are amongst the best places to visit in Malaysia.
Cameron Highlands
Cameron Highlands is located in the northwestern tip of Pahang. It’s about 200 km from the capital city Kuala Lumpur. You can have an awesome road trip while going towards Cameron Highlands. The scenery along the way is captivating as much as the place itself. It was named after a British explorer and geologist William Cameron, who was commissioned by the then colonial government to map out the Pahang-Perak border area in 1885.
Cameron Highlands was mostly flourished during the colonial era. The British established tea gardens taking advantage of the cool climate of the area and its fertile hilly terrain. Today these vast green tea gardens are a source of huge tourist activity. The well-marked walking trails, surviving colonial-era architecture, and worthwhile attractions, such as the visitor centre at the BOH Tea Estate, together merit a visit to Cameron. Also in its favour is a large range of accommodation and excellent bus services. Some of the hotels are still kept in the colonial style decor. The Lakehouse Cameron Highlands Resort is one of the hotels boasting the colonial architecture and style.
Tea Gardens, Strawberry farms, butterfly park, Mossy Forest are some of the major attractions in Cameron Highlands. It is also home to the world’s largest flower Rafflesia. Cameron Highlands is one of the best places to visit in Malaysia.
Genting Highlands
Genting Highland is the most modern hill station in Malaysia. It is situated very close to Kuala Lumpur, only about 45 minutes drive away. It is a perfect place for a short trip. The newly opened mega mall and refurbished Awana skyway gondola cable car are latest attractions.
Genting is acknowledged as Malaysia’s premier hillside station; this Kuala Lumpur mountain peak getaway is Malaysia’s Asian-style Las Vegas. Renowned for its casino, nightlife and luxury hotels, it features the First World Hotel – which was listed as the world’s largest hotel in 2006 by the Guinness World Book of Records.
The 20th Century Fox World Malaysia is scheduled to open in 2019 and it’s expected to be one of the most exciting theme parks in Malaysia. Replacing the Genting Highlands Outdoor Theme Park, expect 25 thrilling rides and attractions inspired by Hollywood blockbusters such as Planet of the Apes, Night at the Museum and many other.
A Taoist temple named as Chin Swee Caves Temple is also a wonderful place to explore in Genting Highlands. Once you see this place you just can’t stop admiring the serenity and magnificence of this temple. Tucked on the rocky slope of Genting Highlands’ peak, it gives you those marvelous views of the Pahang hills around it.
Penang Hill
Penang Hill station claims to be Malaysia’s oldest hill stations. It was first opened up with a pack-horse track in 1788. During the 19th century, rich colonials built private houses in the area, a practice which spread to Chinese merchants in the early 20th century. What really opened up Penang Hill to tourism though, was a funicular railway which started operations in 1923. Even though it is barely 800 metres above sea level, on a clear day the views are breathtaking.
The Penang Hill Funicular Railway has the steepest tunnel track in the world and has the longest track in Asia! Penang Hill Top is located six km away from Georgetown. The hilly and forested area is Penang state’s primary hill resort. It is the last patch of tropical rainforest in Penang so the flora and fauna here have been protected since 1960.
Fraser’s Hill
Famously known as Little England, Fraser’s Hill is one of the relaxing places to visit in malaysia. The area, comprising of seven hills of about 1,200 to 1,500 metres, was never intended to attract hordes of visitors. And despite some ill-considered development over recent years, it still has a relaxed atmosphere, and plenty of charm.
Apart from its cool climate, Fraser’s can boast several well-marked walking trails, abundant bird-life, beautiful views and a sprinkling of quaint places to eat and sleep. Family with children will enjoy boating at Allan’s Water which is located about 5 minutes drive from the Clock tower. At The Paddock, Children and adults can take a ride on horses that is guided by an instructor. This facility has many other activities like archery etcetera too.
Bukit Tinggi
Bukit Tinggi is a beautiful small town in the Bentong district of Pahang. Famous for its natural surroundings and pleasant weather, this gorgeous place is situated along the Kuala Lumpur Expressway less than an hour drive from Kuala Lumpur city.
The Zen-influenced Bukit Tinggi grants you soulful retreat amongst dense forest with sense-intoxicating lush flora and fauna. It is regarded as one of the top hill stations in Malaysia. You can plan a short day trip from Kuala Lumpur. A perfect weekend getaway. Explore Japanese Village, botanical garden and a horse riding trail.
Another interesting place to see is the Colmar Tropicale which is a replica of the actual 16th century Colmar town in the north east of Alsace, France. This made up French village is so cute.
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