One of the most popular destinations because of its urban as well as natural beauty, Malaysia is also known for its hill stations. Beaches, rain forests, rivers, hills, entertaining urban lifestyle- you get it all here. The flora and fauna especially in the hilly region of this peninsular country is mesmerizing. While many people look forward to visiting places like the Petronas twin towers, Batu caves, Sipandan Island, Perhentian island, Bako National Park and more, the hill stations in the country are not often discussed. In reality, hill stations in Malaysia are splendid and are must-visit places to have on your checklist as you plan a trip here.
We have listed the top 10 Malaysia hill stations to visit when you are here for a vacation:
1. Genting Highlands
Genting Highlands gained fame mainly because of the family theme park located here and slowly evolved as one of the beautiful hill stations in Malaysia. The location is easily accessible and is the perfect blend of natural beauty and urban amenities and entertainment. Genting is also the only place in Malaysia where gambling is legal which led to the nickname “Las Vegas in Malaysia.” Some of the prime attraction of the place include a gold course, the resorts, and the 3.3km long Genting skyway.
2. Janda Baik
A small hamlet in Bentong District, Janda Baik is 30km away from the popular destination of Malaysia- Kuala Lampur. The place is surrounded by tropical rain forest and located at a height of 600m above sea level. The village has many campsites and adventure activities like jungle trekking and water rafting. It also has a rich colonial history and was a retreat for the British during the summers. There are also many heritage sites in this region and as well as waterfalls.
3. Tambunan
If you are in search of an offbeat hilly places in Malaysia, Tambunan is the perfect destination. Often called the Switzerland of the East, the place is 1000m above the sea level. The place is surrounded by terraced paddy fields and bamboo forests. This is also the home to the 17 meters tall Mahua Waterfall. It is an hour’s drive from Kota Kinabulu and is perfect day-trip to include in your vacation checklist. However, the place is also perfect for a quaint night stay and you can explore more of it, especially the Tambunan Rafflesia Reserve.
4. Cameron Highlands
The Cameron Highlands is located 1500m above the sea level and drained by three rivers. It is one of the highest hill stations in Malaysia. It is also the largest hill station in the country and popular for the rainforest ecosystem, waterfalls, wildlife, mossy forests and the mountains. The serenity of the place along with unique terrains like sprawling tea estates, and strawberry plantation make it a great attraction for the visitors. The place resembles a British hamlet courtesy to the many colonials building and has a very pleasant weather. The best time to visit is February to July.
5. Fraser hills
Fraser hill resembles a Scottish village and particularly known for the granite Tudor buildings. It is located at 1200 m above sea level. The town is surrounded by English flower gardens, pine trees and nestled in the mountains of Pahang. Bird watching and Jungle trekking are the most popular activities here. If you are inclined more towards a relaxing and cozy vacation, you can easily enjoy that too in this quaint town.
6. Bukit Tinggi
The Bukit Tinggi is comparatively warmer than other hill stations in Malaysia. But it is also the home to some of the spectacular scenic beauties in the country like the Colmar Tropicale. It is located in the heart of a natural rainforest and is a French themed resort that is modelled after Colmar in France. You can also visit the rabbit park and the Japanese garden there. You can also experience the Japanese tea ceremony at the Japanese tea house here.
7. Bukit Larut, Perak
Bukit Larut was formerly known as the Maxwell hill and located at an altitude of 1250m above the sea level. It is 290 km away from Kuala Lampur. Situated amidst thick and dense forest and offers a stunning view of the Western coast, Bukit Larut is a quaint place with old colonial buildings and flower gardens. If you are interested in bird watching and wildlife, this is a great place to visit.
8. Penang Hill
The Penang Hill is 820m above the Penang capital and known as Bukit Bendra among the locals. You get a breathtaking view of the Georgetown from here. It consists of a number of peaks and the highest among these is the Western Peak which is 833m. It is only 6 km away from Georgetown and one of the best honeymoon destinations Malaysia. The fresh air, and chilly weather together make it a pleasant stay attracting numerous tourists who look forward to Nature walks, and similar activities.
9. Kundasang, Sabah
Kundasang is known as the New Zealand or Scotland of Borneo because of the scenic beauty and stunning views of Mount Kinabulu. You can enjoy a lush flowery meadow, and blue mountains as well as a rich colonial history when you are here. There are hot springs as well and the temperature is pleasant all year round.
10. Kelabit Highlands, Sarawak
Located between the Gunung National Park and East Kalimatan, the Kelabit highlands are in the extreme north-eastern corner of the country. The lush green valleys of expansive paddy fields, dotted with small cottages of the locals, make it a perfect place for adventurers. If you are looking for an isolated and peaceful vacation this is a must-visit place. The Gunung Murud which is the highest peak of the Sarawak Mountain range and overlooks the valley. Despite being a hill station, the temperature is quite pleasant and drop to at most 15 degrees Celsius at night. The best time to visit is July when the Bario Food Festival takes place.
The hill stations in Malaysia are tempting enough to plan your trip keeping them as the central attractions. Now that you have a list, planning the trip route would get much easier for you.
