Aditi ShuklaKuala Lumpur is a city that will take you days – weeks, even – to explore, but once you’re tired of the crowds, there are plenty of options for unconventional getaways. Up north of Kuala Lumpur is a plethora of destinations including Penang, Langkawi and Kota Bharu. But if those are already done and dusted, here are seven more suggestions for you:
1. Tumpat
Image credit: Anandajoti Bhikkhu
This small town which is well-connected by rail is an important hub of transportation. Tumpat houses 25 temples and also has some of the calmest beaches of the area. Follow the temple trail around Wat Photivihan for the Sleeping Buddha, Wat Machimmaram for its Sitting Buddha, Wat Pikulthong for the Standing Buddha and Wat Mai Suwankiri for its famous dragon boat, amongst many others. Book your stay at a chalet, bed and breakfast or a cosy little rest house. To experience something rustic, stay in a wooden house with stilts in Kampung Pantai Suri. Go fishing and watch the activities of the day at the bustling fishing village of Pantai Suri. If you are looking at spending some time by the beach, setting up a barbecue, boating or hiking along the shores, then book your stay at the water chalet of Pantai Seri Tujuh or the Beach of Seven Lagoons.
Book your stay at a chalet, bed and breakfast or a cosy little rest house. To experience something rustic, stay in a wooden house with stilts in Kampung Pantai Suri. Go fishing and watch the activities of the day at the bustling fishing village of Pantai Suri. If you are looking at spending some time by the beach, setting up a barbecue, boating or hiking along the shores, then book your stay at the water chalet of Pantai Seri Tujuh or the Beach of Seven Lagoons.
2. Perhentian Islands
Image credit: Jakub Michankow
If you are a water baby and the ocean’s charm lures you to deep dive and snorkel, then this is the place to be in. Situated at Kuala Terengganu, the Perhentian Islands are made up of two islands: Perhentian Kecil and Perhentian Besar.
Party all night, light a bonfire or simply unwind at the hammocks all day. Whether you are looking for a turtle conservation programme, certification for scuba diving or waiting to try your hands on some water adventure sports, this is the place for you. Rest assured, these islands are the jewels of the ocean and any opportunity to visit them must not be missed. Fine tune yourselves to the prolific marine life and stay submerged in afterthoughts once you are allured by the beauty of these mesmerising islands.
3. Gua Musang
Image credit: Mohd Fahmi Mohd Azmi
This railway town is the biggest district of the state of Kelantan and is bordered by Terengganu, Pahang and Perak. If you translate the words Gua Musang, you will decipher the meaning – Fox Cave.
If rock climbing and hill trotting is your take on adventure, head to Bukit Gua Musang. Relax at the Sungai Ber Hot Springs located in the interior parts of the forest reserve or head to the hill village of Lojing Highlands, within the area, known for its biodiversity. These highlands situated at an elevation of 1,000 feet above sea level are very rich in flora and fauna. Explore the freshly grown fruits and vegetables in the area, and do check out the Rafflesia, the world’s largest flower. Alternately, you can camp at some of the famous caves like Gua Cha and Gua Sidang, to name a few.
4. Kuala Krai
Image credit: Ian McBride
Yes, some of you know it as Kuala Lebir. Now called Kuala Krai, this district in the state of Kelantan is landlocked and hilly. If you are looking for a picnic spot with a number of waterfalls, including Lata Beringin, at frequent intervals, then you must head to Lata Rek in Kuala Krai. Besides these, you have to explore Gunung Stong, the trekker’s paradise at the Stong State Park. Hike to the summit and camp at Baha Camp on the way. You will be rewarded with Jelawang Waterfall. If you have gone this far, might as well trek up to the neighbouring Gunung Ayam, the highest peak in the enclosure. Watch the sun rise or set at this point and imbibe breath-taking views from here.
5. Taman Negara
Image credit: Xuanxu
You must camp at Kuala Koh National Park and embark on your onward journey to Taman Negara. Believed to be one of the oldest rainforests, millions of years old, it is spread across Kelantan and Gua Musang as well. Trek to the highest point, Gunung Tahan, take the canopy walkway or simply go jungle trekking. If you like to experience every bit of nature, you must go bird watching, trekking and explore the caves further. You must get your permit from the Department of Wildlife and National Parks and enter through the access points of the state you are gaining entry from. Rest assured, this capsule holds the perfect concoction of treks, wildlife, pristine rivers, dense flora and fauna, and wildlife sighting.
6. Banding Island
Image credit: miss_ubisetela
This is an interesting island with a twist. Banding island is an artificial one and is known for its Temenggor Lake. Situated in Perak, the island offers scenic views and a diversity of flora and fauna. Take a two-day break at the luxury resort or trek deeper into the jungles. This man-made lake is surrounded by a beautiful rainforest – Royal Belum Rainforest. Housing some of the rarest species of flowers, the rainforest offers scenic views and salt licks while making for a good picnic spot. The best way to access this island is through the East-West Highway closer to Tasik Peragu. Indulge in a day of fishing, night trekking, forest trailing and more.
7. Cameron Highlands
Image credit: Ken Marshall
Find some calm and peace at the famous hill station of Malaysia, the Cameron Highlands, situated about 1,500 metres above sea level. The retreat calls for a visit to the lush green farms full of organic vegetables, mushrooms, fresh strawberries, lavender and more. Besides these, you have cactus, bee and butterfly farms as well. Avid hikers and trekkers will find the jungle trails very inviting, although not very well marked.
Take a breather at the hotels and resorts located across the three towns of the highlands – Tanah Rata, Ringlet and Brinchang – and don’t forget to visit the tea plantations for a tour while sipping on hot tea and taking a bite of the scones.
Also read: 2D1N Cameron Highlands Itinerary for Your Next Getaway
