With authentic homestays in local villages, hikes through jungles, and relaxing island beaches, this adventurous Northern Malaysia tour will help you discover the wonders of the country.
Take a cooking class to learn about traditional Malay dishes
Visit the workshops of local craftsmen in a royal city
Hike through jungles and swim by waterfalls
Spend days exploring remote islands
Welcome to Malaysia and the start of your Northern Malaysia tour!
Begin the trip landing in Penang, a trader’s city filled with history, culture, and delicious food. Spend your first day being introduced with some of the famous landmarks of the city, such as the Street of Harmony, Little India, and Fort Cornwallis. Be given a guided tour of the night marks and dine under the stars at one of the best restaurants in town.
Wake up the next morning and transfer to the Spice Terraces, where you’ll be given a guided tour of the stunning landscape that overlook the Andaman Sea. Then start a cooking class, where you’ll learn to cook traditional Malay food, which is a blend of Chinese, Indian, Malay cuisine. Enjoy the food of your labor with lunch overlooking the estate before heading deep into the hills. Visit an Art Garden filled with local art, tropical flowers, and lush green scenery.
The next day starts with a staple of Malaysian food culture: dim sum. Find yourself sat alongside locals vying for their early morning breakfasts as the guide explains more about Malay culture and culinary traditions. Once you’ve had you fill, head to Chow Rasta, a buzzing wet market where you can watch locals haggle for goods.
Then go to Kuala Kangsar, a royal city of Malaysia. Visit a stunning mosque designed in 1917 and admire incredible woodwork that is a fantastic example of traditional Malay style. Then visit Baitul Anor, where you can see a fantastic example of traditional Malay village architecture. Then head to the Sultan’s Palace- a perfect place to snap some photos. Visit the workshop of local craftsmen, some of which are making traditional “keris” daggers and traditional pottery.
When you’re done exploring the town, head to your traditional Malay homestay, where a local family will be opening their home to you. Experience authentic traditional living between tours around the region, visit stilted homes, take a kayak ride, or relax with your host family. Learn how to tie and wear a traditional Malay sarong, and adventure to a local waterfall for a cool dip.
Then it’s time to say goodbye to your host family as you make you way towards Banding Island. Along the way you’ll go through the UNESCO World Heritage site of Lenggong Valley, stopping at their interesting Archeological Museum, which houses the oldest and most complete human skeleton in Southeast Asia.
Reach Banding Island and check in to the stunning Belum Rainforest Resort. Find yourself exploring trails, bird watching, and swimming; take a boat deep into the jungle and more while you indulge in the natural wonders of your northern Malaysia tour. See if you can find wild fruit growing in the forest or spot rare flowers that grow in the region. Spend one day taking a Kota Bharu walking tour, where you can explore the workshops of jewelry makers, see the old Sultan’s Palace, and admire stunning architecture.
Then it’s time to head to the beach. If you’re visiting March-October you’ll get to enjoy the seaside delights of the Perhentian Islands. Take self-guided walks through the jungle, find a shady spot to rest under a palm tree, or snorkel with sea turtles as you unwind and relax. If you’re visiting October-March you’ll be transported to the dreamy Langkawi Island, where you can take a boat trip to Maiden Lake, trek through the forest, or relax on the stunning sandy beaches.
Then it’s time to pack your bags and wave goodbye to your guides as they take you to the airport, where you’ll board the plane to your next destination.
What our Travel Specialists think about this tour:
Mile
“An exhilarating exploration of the treasures of Northern Malaysia. A unique way to discover the endless activities the region has.”
Day 1: Penang Arrival
Welcome to Penang, Malaysia, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the starting point for your Northern Malaysia tour! A city that was once a center or British colonial trading through the Malacca Strait, Penang has a rich cultural heritage that lends to days of exploring.
Get acquainted with the city with a guided walk through the modern and 19th century buildings that line the roads. Be introduced to some of the main points of interest, such as the Street of Harmony, Fort Cornwallis, Little India, and the Clan Temples.
Spend the evening at one of the city’s stunning restaurants, dining under the stars with plate upon plate of local food being put in front of you before returning to the hotel for a night of restful sleep.
Overnight : Penang
Meals :
Dinner
Day 2: Penang (Cooking class, art, and garden)
Get an early morning start your Northern Malaysia tour being picked up from the hotel and taken to the Tropical Spice Garden. Stroll through the spice terraces and explore the stunning landscaped award-winning gardens. Enjoy a tea in the garden as you relax and take in your surroundings.
Then it’s time to tie on your apron and get ready to test your Peranakan or “Nyonya” cooking skills! The word “nyonya” is used for women of prominent social standing in Malaysian culture, and the cuisine is often referred to as such in appreciation for the women who cooked it. A combination of Chinese, Malay, and other influences, these cuisines come together in a unique blend to form what is known as “Malay” food that is tangy, spicy, and herbal all at once. Learn how to make this style cooking and then enjoy a selection of dishes to eat while sitting on the patio.
After lunch it’s time to head into the hill of Teluk Bahang, where you’ll head to Balik Pulau’s Art and Garden. Find yourself in the middle of a green sanctuary that showcases stunning plants found in the region nestled amongst various pieces of art. Walk along the terraced hill and learn how the plants are still used in Malay culture today. Then return to the hotel for an evening at your leisure and relax on the Northern Malaysia tour.
Overnight : Penang
Meals :
Breakfast -
Lunch
Day 3: Penang – Kuala Kangsar
Wake early and enjoy a dim sum breakfast alongside crowds of locals. A guide will share tips on Malaysian dining etiquette and discuss the city’s rich culinary history while food continues to stream your way. Once you’ve had your fill of tasty morsels, it’s time to visit Chow Rasta wet market, which has been in operations since the early 1800s. Watch locals come to haggle for food and get first-hand insight into where you food comes from in Malaysia.
Then head to the hotel for checkout and be driven two hours to the city of Kuala Kangsar. When you arrive a delicious lunch of laksa will be waiting for you. Once you’ve had your fill visit the stunning mosque of the town, famed for its golden dome and minarets. If you want to explore the grounds but forgot to wear modest clothing or bring a headscarf fear not, as they can be provided for you!
Just next-door is the famed Baitul Anor village, where you can see the classic architecture of the region in the 20th century. Then carry on to Sultan’s Palace to get your fill of fabulous art deco before stopping for a photo at Istana Kenengan, a pristine example of classic Malaysian wood craftsmanship and former palace of the sultan.
Continue the Northern Malaysia tour on to a keris workshop, where you can see traditional craftsmen make the traditional dagger-like weapons. Keris have been created for generations under the sultans, each dagger having designs with personal meanings. Take time to ask the craftsmen about their work, and see new keris being made.
Then continue your exploration of the region’s crafts with a visit to a Labu Sayong workshop in a neighbouring village. These gourd-shaped pottery pieces are produced from clay pulled from the nearby river and are used to keep water cool. While the pottery is a traditional part of the average Malaysian home, they’re starting to make a trendy re-emergence.
Once it’s time to leave the villages you’ll head to a Malay homestay that will give you a chance to enjoy the wonders of traditional Malay home alongside Lake Chenderoh in Perak. Kayaks will be available to take for a spin on the lake, or stay lakeside in the shade to enjoy a relaxing day. A tour guide will come and greet you to give you more information about the area, including various village activities and local food.
Enjoy the rest of the evening of your Northern Malaysia tour for leisure, or take a kayak ride before a BBQ dinner and some fun evening village games.
Overnight : Suka Suka homestay
Meals :
Breakfast -
Lunch -
Dinner
Day 4: Homestay
Indulge in a big breakfast in your homestay before taking a morning walk to the village to continue your Northern Malaysia tour. Board a boat that will take you to a traditional Malay village where wooden stilted Malay houses remain. The local guide will explain to you the way of life for local villagers.
Return to the homestay for a hearty lunch. After taking some time to relax, learn how to tie a traditional Malay sarong to relax in for the rest of the day. Wanting to do something more adventurous? Take a walk to a nearby waterfall or paddle your way across the water in a kayak before returning home for a traditional Malay dinner.
Overnight : Suka Suka homestay
Meals :
Breakfast -
Lunch -
Dinner
Day 5: Homestay – Banding Island
Wake up for the fifth day of your Northern Malaysia tour and wave goodbye to your homestay hosts before going to the Lenggong Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site where the “peak man” skeleton was found and has been inhabited for over 200,000 years. Stop by the Archeological Museum to learn about old tools and stone artifacts found in the region. Then travel another 1.5 hours to Banding Island to spend the next few days exploring the robust nature trails of Belum Forest.
After a delicious lunch, check in to the Belum Rainforest Resort and relax. If you’re looking for something to do, walk to the resort’s herb garden and learn about local medicinal and herbal practices. Looking for something more leisurely? Grab a chair alongside the resort’s infinity pool.
Have dinner before it’s time to go on a night trek. See the rainforest at night, listening to the nocturnal creatures that are asleep during the day. Return to the hotel to relax and get a good night sleep before the adventures of the Northern Malaysia tour continue tomorrow.
(Please note: tomorrow’s tour to the Royal Belum State Park requires that passport details are submitted to the Park authorities in advance to purchase permits. Alternatively a similar program can be offered in Lower Belum.)
Overnight : Belum Rainforest Resort
Meals :
Breakfast -
Lunch -
Dinner
Day 6: Banding Island
Make sure you have a big breakfast this morning, as you have a full day of exploring Belum State Park and Lake Banding ahead of you! Meet the boat at the resort’s jetty at 8:30am. You’ll be taken to some of the more untamed parts of the upper Belum. Cruise along the water in a boat while searching for rare flowers and trek to a waterfall to enjoy some swimming. Hornbills are famous in this area, so keep your eyes open as your continue your journey. Trek through remote, deep jungle paths and take in the view around you. Stop for a packed lunch and listen to your guide talk about the indigenous Orang Asli villages that are around the lake, only accessible by water.
Visit one last waterfall before taking a short break and hiking back. Arrive back to the resort and enjoy the rest of the afternoon at leisure- you’ve earned it!
Overnight : Belum Rainforest Resort
Meals :
Breakfast -
Lunch -
Dinner
Day 7: Belum Rainforest – Kota Bharu
Enjoy breakfast before going to what locals call “KB”, standing for Kota Bharu, which is on the east coast of Malaysia. Wander the markets to explore artisanal crafts, and photogenic old buildings. Find yourself in Pasar Siti Khadijah, where you can visit famous landmarks such as Sultan’s Palace and an old matchmaking factory from the 1930s. Visit famed jewelers and textile makers who sell their wares from humble shops.
Then visit 19th century palaces that are full of old artifacts, making you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Stroll down Temenggong Street to watch local vendors try to sell their wares, and see if you can haggle for your own handicrafts! Then go to the State Mosque, where you art deco decorations dazzle and a clock tower stands in the distance. Enjoy learning about the structures through a gentle walking tour.
End the day of your Northern Malaysia tour with a visit to the night market, where you can enjoy regional dishes that are beloved my Malaysians.
(Please note: At an additional cost, this tour can also be enjoyed by trishaw.)
Overnight : Kota Bharu
Meals :
Breakfast -
Lunch
Day 8 (March-October): Kota Bharu – Perhentian Islands
Transfer to Kuala Besut, where you’ll board a boat that will take you to the pristine Perhentian Islands. Check in to the hotel and spend the rest of the day at your leisure.
Overnight : Perhentian Islands
Meals :
Breakfast
Day 8 (October-March): Kota Bharu – Langkawi Island
Wake up and hang your bags to your driver, who will take you to the Kota Bahru Airport, where you’ll be catching flight to Langkawi, a beautiful island that is ideal for rest and relaxation. Check in to the hotel and spend the rest of the day at your leisure.
Overnight : Langkawi Island
Meals :
Breakfast
Days 9-11 (March-October): Perhentian Island
Snorkel with sea turtles, take a solo walk through the jungle, or lay in the shade under a palm tree- the island is yours to discover!
Overnight : Perhentian Islands
Meals :
Breakfast
Days 9-11 (October-March): Langkawi Island
Enjoy the sights of the island: walk the picturesque Canopy Walk, swim, take a boat trip on Maiden Lake, and simply lay on the beach enjoying the sound of the waves.
Overnight : Langkawi
Meals :
Breakfast
Day 12 (March-October): Perhentian Islands, departure
Spend the day relaxing before boarding a boat to Kuala Besut. Upon arrival you’ll be driven to Kota Bharu for your onward flight.
Meals :
Breakfast
Day 12 (October-March): Langkawi Island, departure
Spend the morning relaxing before being taken to Langkawi International Airport for your next flight, concluding your Northern Malaysia tour.
Meals :
Breakfast
During your 12 day, 11 nights Northern Malaysia tour you’ll be taken from the famous cities of the north to remote islands off the coast. Start your adventure by arriving in Penang, where you’ll learn about the culture of this UNESCO World Heritage city. Take a cooking class and enjoy local art. Explore the culture, food, and local lifestyle of the colorful former colonial trading town. Then head to the royal city of Kuala Kangsar, where you can see how the sultans lived. Meet local craftsmen and see how they maintain the traditions of their art. Admire the old architecture, wander the marketplace, and search for souvenirs as you learn about the rich history of the city. Then head to your authentic homestay, where you’ll spend time with a local family in a traditional Malaysian home. Take a kayak ride, explore the stilt-house villages, hike through waterfalls, and learn about traditional Malay lifestyle. Enjoy a BBQ with your host family and new villager friends. After you say goodbye to your host you’ll go to Banding Island, where you’ll be staying at the stunning Belum Rainforest Resort. On the way visit a museum packed with ancient artifacts. When you arrive to the island you’ll enjoy days of exploring nature trails, cruising deeper into the jungle, and learning about the native villages in the area. Visit Kota Bharu, which is considered the cultural heart of Malaysia. Learn about history and cultural as you visit 19th century Malay palaces and visit the traditional workshops of artisans. Then it’s time to head to the beach. If you are visiting March-October you’ll be whisked away to the pristine Perhentian Islands along the country’s northeastern tip. Enjoy jungle walks, swimming with sea turtles, or perch under a palm tree to enjoy a day of relaxation. If you’re visiting October-March you’ll find yourself on Malaysia’s western coast, to the magical Langkawi Island. Take a canopy walk, enjoy a boat trip, or lay on the soft sand of the beaches. Whatever island you find yourself on at the conclusion of your Northern Malaysia tour, a guide will take you to the closest airport and wave goodbye as you board to your next destination.
Included
Accommodation as mentioned
Meals as mentioned
English speaking local guide for Sightseeing and Nature Tours
English Speaking Driver for Overland Transportation and Tours
Transfers as mentioned by private air conditioned vehicle
Activities in Belum are on a Join in Basis
Not Included
Other meals than mentioned
Other services than mentioned
International and Domestic Flights
Laundry, telephone calls and expenditure of a personal nature
Tips, Travel insurance (must include helicopter evacuation for Malaysia)
Visa for Malaysia
Camera/video entrance fees
Tourism tax of 10MYR per room per night
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