Malaysia

Malaysia splits into two halves that feel like different countries. Peninsular Malaysia has Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Langkawi and the Cameron Highlands. East Malaysia, across the South China Sea, has Sabah and Sarawak — Borneo, with rainforest, orangutans and Mount Kinabalu. Most first trips stay on the peninsula.

Best time to visit

The west coast (Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Langkawi) is drier from December to March. The east coast (Perhentian, Redang, Tioman) is drier from March to September and largely closes in the monsoon. Borneo is wettest from November to February. Because the coasts move in opposite directions, there is always somewhere in Malaysia in season.

Visa for Indian passport holders

Malaysia has offered visa-free short stays to Indian travellers under a scheme that has been extended and adjusted several times. We confirm the current position for your dates when you book rather than quoting a rule that may have changed. Passport validity needs to cover six months beyond the return date, and onward travel proof is sometimes requested at check-in.

Getting there and around

Direct flights connect Kuala Lumpur with several Indian cities, and Langkawi and Penang have direct and one-stop options. Within the peninsula, the KL–Penang and KL–Ipoh routes are fast and cheap by train, while Langkawi is a flight or a long ferry. Driving is straightforward but traffic around KL is heavy.

What to see

• Kuala Lumpur — the Petronas Towers, Batu Caves, and the food streets of Bukit Bintang.
• Penang — George Town's heritage streets and the best street food in the country.
• Langkawi — the cable car, island hopping, and duty-free shopping.
• Cameron Highlands — tea estates and cooler air, a four-hour drive from KL.

See the Malaysia tour package for pricing, or visa services to confirm your entry requirements.