Top 10 Things to Do in Genting — Including New Attractions!

Among all the popular places to visit in Malaysia, the Genting Highlands hold a special place in the heart of Malaysians. Not only is it one of the timeless weekend getaway destinations, but Genting is also one of the few local destinations where you can enjoy some respite from the year-long heat! 

Over the last few years, it has undergone plenty of changes. New Genting attractions have been added, while some of the old ones have been phased out. When it finally reopened after interstate travel was resumed, Malaysians flocked to the destination in droves. If you’re planning a trip to Malaysia soon, then you should also pay Genting a visit. 

To help you get started on your travel plans, here are things to do in Genting Highlands you don’t want to miss. 

1. Shop till you drop at the Genting Highlands Premium Outlets

If you travelled back to the early 2010s and told people that Genting would one day be a shopping destination, you’d probably have been laughed at. And yet, fast forward to today, that’s exactly the case! 

While Genting isn’t exactly a one-of-a-kind shopping haven (Malaysia has plenty of malls), in recent years, the City of Entertainment (as locals call it) has established itself as a top destination for shopaholics. This is mostly thanks to the shiny new Genting Highlands Premium Outlets.

As you can guess from the name, you’ll find plenty of renowned global brands here, from Michael Kors and Coach, to Kate Spade, as well as some local artisanal brands. What’s even better is that there always seems to be a sale ongoing, so you’re bound to find plenty of awesome deals!   

2. Pamper yourself with incredible culinary delights!

Similarly, if you told someone from a few years ago that Genting would one day become a foodie destination, no one would believe you. 

And yet, the unbelievably long lines outside eateries like Five Guys, Burger and Lobster, and the many hotpot restaurants at SkyAvenue prove otherwise. I remember when the only food options I had at Genting were a Hainanese Kopitiam and McDonald’s! 

While the prices are a bit higher than usual (it is a tourist resort town), the food is truly incredible and definitely worth the splurge. If you’re not into global fast-food chains, there are also plenty of local and Asian restaurants to choose from too. 

3. Treat yourself to a fresh cup of coffee

Oh, this brings back plenty of memories. Before you say it, no, Genting isn’t a place where you’ll find a lot of swoon-worthy cafes. However, one particular activity many Malaysians never miss when they visit Genting is to have a cup of coffee…at Starbucks! 

I suppose it’s just something about sipping on a hot Americano or Latte amidst the chilly alpine weather that hits the spot. That said, there is one particular Starbucks outlet in Genting that you definitely don’t want to miss: Starbucks Chin Swee. 

It’s not that it has a special menu or anything. Rather, it’s the alluring mountain views it offers, punctuated by misty clouds. In fact, it’s known as the most unique Starbucks outlet in Malaysia! That’s because of its unique architecture that blends into the overall aesthetics of another popular attraction in Genting: the Chin Swee Caves Temple! 

Also read: 12 Cold Destinations in Southeast Asia for Your Next Getaway

4. Visit the Chin Swee Caves Temple

Speaking of, despite being known mostly as an exciting resort town, the Genting Highlands isn’t all just glitzy casinos and thrilling theme parks. It’s actually got some hidden historical gems too. Case in point, this iconic attraction was built in honour of a famous Taoist religious leader, who was said to be able to exorcise spirits. 

The beautiful temple is located around the midway point of the hills and is set on forested land. It features a few prayer halls and a nine-storey pagoda which you can climb for a stunning view of the surrounding greenery. 

There are also a few religious statues but most people come here for the Insta-worthy scenery and the serene atmosphere, a far cry from the vibrant sights and sounds of the resort town at the summit. And of course, to have coffee at the aforementioned Starbucks outlet. 

5. Explore the vibrant SkyAvenue district

Ask any Malaysian and they’ll tell you that one of the most vivid memories they have of the old Genting was thronging the nosy indoor streets of First World Plaza. There were artificial cobblestone paths, Venetian canals, an Eden-esque artificial garden, and random roller coasters zooming past overhead. It was beautiful chaos. 

Today, it has been transformed into the elegant multi-level complex known as SkyAvenue. When you visit, you’ll find plenty of shops and restaurants, along with a handful of fun attractions to enjoy. What makes SkyAvenue so popular these days is the ease of access: This lifestyle mall is connected to the SkyAvenue cable car station. So you can actually visit the area after you park your car downhill! 

6. Hop on fun rides at the indoor Skytropolis Theme Park

Speaking of new and improved, the previous random collection of rides in First World Plaza has now been replaced by the glitzy, Insta-worthy Skytropolis Theme Park. 

Filled with thrilling rides that are newly refurbished, it’s the perfect way to enjoy some indoor theme park fun. There are over 20 attractions to choose from. Some of them are family-friendly while others are well-catered to adrenaline junkies. 

However, here’s an insider tip. While Skytropolis is loads of fun, if you find yourself pressed for time, I recommend just stopping by here for a few photos; the neon lights in the background are totally swoon-worthy). Then, proceed to Genting’s newest attraction: Genting SkyWorlds! 

7. Experience “snow” at Genting’s ever-popular Snow World

One particular attraction from the “old” First World Plaza is Snow World. As you might expect from the name, Snow World is one of the only places in Malaysia where you can experience a winter wonderland!

Of course, the snow is artificial snow, but the excitement of making (fake) snow angels is definitely genuine. The chilly temperatures within Snow World help to make the experience more authentic too! 

At the time of writing, it is temporarily closed. But from what we gather, it’s one of the few old Genting attractions that are still standing. The quirky Ripley’s Believe It Or Not Museum is the other long-time favourite that still remains. 

Also read: Exploring the Asian Alps: 7 Countries to Visit For An Awesome Alpine Vacation

8. Discover endless fun at the brand new Genting SkyWorlds Theme Park

Oh yes, after years and years of delays, development issues (and even a brush with legal trouble with 20th Century Fox), the new Genting SkyWorlds is FINALLY open! 

Featuring plenty of fun rides from lovable childhood cartoons and TV shows like Rio, Ice Age, and Andromeda. There are also various themed zones that offer exhilarating rides and plenty of unique F&B options to choose from. 

The best part? Even as I write this now, this Genting outdoor theme park is still just in soft opening mode; meaning, there are yet more rides and attractions to come! I can only imagine how (even more) crowded it’s going to be once it’s fully open. So, if you’d like to visit before everyone piles in, you might wanna make your move quick! 

9. Hop on board a scenic cable car ride

One of the things to do in Genting that you really can’t miss is simply… travelling there. Of course, you could just drive all the way up along the windy mountain roads. But a better way is to stop at Gohtong Jaya and hop on a cable car to the top! 

As you travel along at a leisurely pace, you’ll be able to admire the surrounding scenery from up high! And the best part about taking a cable car ride is that it’s relatively affordable and it takes you straight to SkyAvenue as mentioned earlier. You could also hop off at the Chin Swee Caves Temple if that’s what you want to see first.

10. Get close to nature with a luxurious glamping experience

Most people, when they visit Genting, choose to stay at the many resorts and hotels in the hills. A great choice by any means but if you’re craving something a little different and a little more luxurious, check out GlAMZ at Genting. 

What’s different, you ask? For one, rather than staying in a hotel room, you’ll be staying in a domed glasshouse. Yes, GLAMZ at Genting is one of Malaysia’s most popular glamping experiences, featuring alluring vistas, chilly mountain air, and therapeutic vibes. 

While you’ll have to find your way to SkyAvenue and all the other mainstream attractions, GLAMZ offers you a unique experience of the natural scenery, something that most visitors tend to neglect (since Genting is known more for its resorts). So, if you want to sleep under the stars in comfort, then definitely check out this accommodation option. 

Also read: Where to Travel in Malaysia: Top Destinations from Every State in the Country

Bonus: Try your luck at Casino de Genting

The Genting Highlands also has a flattering moniker: the Las Vegas of Southeast Asia. That’s thanks in no part to the various entertainment options and attractions, yes, but more so because it is the only place in Malaysia where you can legally enter a casino. 

There are plenty of casinos scattered throughout the various hotels and resorts, although most of them go by the same name: Casino de Genting. There are plenty of gaming options here, ranging from live table games to electronic ones. But do be aware that, unlike some places where anyone is free to enter the casino, Genting imposes a strict age limit for patrons. You will have to be at least 21 years of age to even peek past the entrance! 

If you do manage to get in, well, have fun responsibly —and may the odds be ever in your favour. 

Also read: 12 Dos and Don’ts in Malaysia That Travellers Should Know About

And there you have it: 10 incredible things to do in Genting for a (literal) cool getaway in Malaysia! With Malaysia now open to tourists from around the world, it’s time to start planning your next vacation there!