15 Breathtaking Hidden Gems In Malaysia For Your Next Local Adventure

Why stick to the popular spots when you can enjoy some tranquility and a unique adventure at these hidden gems around Malaysia? From private islands to charming old towns, we've compiled a list of underrated destinations for you to add to your post-pandemic checklist!

This 130 million years old rainforest is waiting to be explored. The dreamy Royal Belum State Park is a tropical paradise that's perfect for nature lovers and is considered one of the oldest, protected, undisturbed rainforests in Peninsular Malaysia. Whether you're looking for a relaxing getaway or a thrilling adventure, you'll find something for you here. Get ready to uncover the mysteries of the jungle and be surrounded by the calmness and serenity of nature. You can spend a night in a beautiful eco-resort, a tent, or even on a boat!

Located by the sea and surrounded by lush rainforests, Rompin is a district in Pahang dotted with natural gems. Plan an adventure here if you're up to explore the off-the-beaten-path, there's so much to see from gushing waterfalls to friendly orang asli villages, sandy beaches, fresh seafood, and a picturesque lake with clear blue waters in Bukit Ibam called Tasik Biru. Popularly known as the Blue Lake, the Tasik Biru in Rompin is believed to have obtained its mysterious colour due to chemical reactions between the rocks and soil. Head over to catch a glimpse of its vivid waters with your own eyes!

Besides sweeping tea plantations and strawberry farms, Cameron Highlands is also home to a handful of hidden gems waiting to be explored. One such gem is the enchanting Mossy Forest, a strangely beautiful forest tucked in the highlands of Mount Brinchang, the second highest peak in Cameron Highlands. Blanketed with mysterious mist and shrouded in a magical aura, the Mossy Forest is located at an elevated position of 2,032 metres above sea level and was ranked fifth place on Lonely Planet's list of Most Instagrammable Forests In The World.

Nestled on the east coast of Sabah, Semporna is quite literally a slice of paradise on earth - this little town is the gateway and launchpad to your wildest island dreams. Semporna is perfection in the form of a collection of beautiful islands, just like its name which means "perfect" in Malay. All you have to do is catch a speedboat and you'll be on your way to islands with turquoise waters, sandy beaches, and some of the most beautiful dive sites in the world.

Pulau Sembilan is a cluster of islands off the coast of Perak that can only be accessed if you sign up for a local package tour. The islands were been closed off to the public for years after sustaining damages due to excessive tourism but there have been announcements of its soon reopening, so make sure to add it to your bucket list! Pulau Sembilan is popular as a location where visitors can catch a glimpse of the dreamy blue tears phenomenon and is also rich with other unique sea creatures such as adolescent bamboo sharks, seahorses, butterflyfish, tuna, vibrant coral reefs, and more.

Tasik Kenyir is one of the largest man-made lakes in the whole of Southeast Asia. The lake is home to over 300 (mostly uninhabited) islands, waterfalls, caves, and wildlife. You can stay on a boat here and fill your day with tons of activities like kayaking, canoeing, rafting, going on jungle walks, caving, fishing, and more. For those who wish to experience something different, we'd recommend booking your stay on a houseboat - imagine waking up to serene views, views of the tranquil rainforest, and calm waters!

Kundasang is lovingly known as the New Zealand or Scotland of Borneo and we promise its majestic views will take your breath away. Enjoy the crisp mountain air and explore all this quaint little town has to offer - some popular attractions here include the Sabah Tea Gardens, Kundasang Market, and the Desa Dairy Farm. There are many unique and cosy homestays located up in Kundasang, so make sure you spend a night here so you don't have to rush through your visit!

There are only a few places where you can get up-close with gentle elephants in Malaysia and the Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary is probably one of the best places to do so in Peninsular Malaysia. Nestled in the small village of Lanchang in Temerloh, the Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary was established in 1989 and is home to many orphaned elephants. Visitors will get to experience close interactions with these gentle creatures here, from feeding them bananas to bathing them in the river.

For those who love learning about different cultures, the Mari Mari Cultural Village in Sabah offers a hidden gem of an experience. Get a glimpse into the lives of Sabah's rich culture and the five major local ethnic groups at this village tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Visitors will get to take part in a variety of hands-on activities and experiences including fire-starting, blowpipe-making, and the sampling of Sabahan traditional delicacies!

Reachable within a 10-minute ferry ride from the Penang Island Jetty, Pulau Jerejak is a little island located on the eastern coast of Penang. Pulau Jerejak has a long, eventful past and decades of turbulent history behind it but is dotted with vibrant photo spots (including a rainbow pier and romantic swings by the beach!) today. Make sure you stay till the evening to catch a beautiful sunset before you head back to George Town!

Penang's iconic Blue Mansion is an architectural and historical wonder, with a genuine old-school charm that's hard to resist. This indigo-blue mansion is a unique blend of Eastern and Western design elements, which makes it stand out from the rest of the buildings along the street. Be sure to pop by when you're in Penang and join in one of the daily guided mansion tours to immerse yourself in the history behind this iconic architectural masterpiece. Pssst, you can even spend a night here if you want!

Gua Niah is often ranked as the second most beautiful cave in Malaysia, behind Gua Mulu. The cave complex remains one of the most important archaeological sites in the world and the entire park consists of over 3,000 hectares of forest and limestone karst. While it's not easy to get here, those who enjoy an adventure will find the journey extremely worth it. You can also sign up for a guided tour offered by local tour operators to save the hassle of figuring out how to get here.

The Astaka Morocco is a Moroccan-inspired pavilion nestled in the Putrajaya Botanical Garden complex. Dotted with walls filled with intricate decorative carvings, beautiful mosaic tiles, and majestic pillars - you can take your time exploring this exotic space and take some nice photos while you're here! If you haven't explored much of Putrajaya, be sure to pop by other attractions in the area including the beautiful pink mosque (Putra Mosque), Putrajaya Lake, Putra Square, and more.

A list of hidden gems in Malaysia will not be complete without having Pulau Gemia on it. Literally called Gem Island (or Pulau Gemia in Malay), this romantic private island is a beach lover's paradise on earth. Its peaceful wind sands, waterfront villas, and laid-back vibe make it a popular honeymoon destination and the perfect spot for you to relax and unwind with your loved ones. Simply hop on a 15-minute boat ride from Merang Jetty and you'll be greeted by generous sun, sand, and beach vibes!

Bukit Larut (formerly known as Maxwell Hill) is located at an altitude of 1,250 m above sea level and is blessed with a cool climate and splendid views overlooking the town of Taiping. The hill is an ideal getaway destination for those looking to escape the humidity of other parts of Malaysia and is a quiet sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Check out other gems in the charming old town of Taiping while you're there - the Taiping Lake Gardens, Antong Coffee Mill, and Taiping Zoo are some of our personal recommendations.