Singapore, a bustling city-state known for its urbanness and modernity, often leaves its residents yearning for a quick escape from the grind. Luckily, Malaysia with its diverse landscapes, rich cultural tapestry and proximity to Singapore offers an array of enticing weekend getaways. In this guide we’ll explore the 7 destinations that will provide those that seek respite a rejuvenating break.
Johor Bahru – The Gateway to Malaysia
Just a bridge away from Singapore, Johor Bahru serves as the perfect getaway for Singaporeans. This thriving city is a treasure trove of attractions, from the vibrant shopping districts like Johor Premium Outlets to the historical charm of Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque. For those seeking a cultural immersion, exploring the bustling Pasar Karat flea market or indulging in local delicacies at Jalan Dhoby is a must.
Malacca – A Melting Pot of History
Filled with history and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Malacca is a compelling destination for a weekend retreat. Journey through the cobbled streets of Jonker Walk. Lined with antique shops and vibrant street art. Immerse yourself in the city’s colonial past at the A Famosa fortress and St Paul’s Church. While you are there don’t forget to savor the unique Nyonya cuisine which is a fusion of Chinese and Malay flavors.
Kuala Lumpur – The Bustling Metropolis
For those who crave the energy of an urban hub, Kuala Lumpur entices with its iconic skyscrapers and diverse offerings. Spend your weekend exploring the iconic Petronas Twin Towers, indulging in retail therapy at Bukit Bintang and savor the large variety of street food at Jalan Alor. Kuala Lumpur has it all as it effortlessly blends modernity with tradition, offering a unique urban experience.
Penang – Culinary Haven and Cultural Gem
Nicknamed “Pearl of the Orient” , Penang is an island of gastronomic delight brimmed with culture. Scroll through George Town’s UNESCO listed heritage area, adorned with colonial architecture and vibrant street art, Indulge in the endless street food options, some even recently been recognized by the Michelin Guide and explore the intricate Clan Jetties for a dose of history.
Cameron Highlands – Nature’s Retreat
Escape the tropical heat of Singapore by heading to the cool embrace of Cameron Highlands. Known for its lush tea plantations, rolling hills, and cool climate, this retreat is a haven for nature lovers. Embark on scenic hikes through the mossy forests, visit the renowned Boh Tea Plantation, and relish the tranquility of the Rose Centre. The crisp mountain air and stunning vistas make Cameron Highlands a refreshing getaway.
Langkawi – Tropical Paradise
For those yearning for sun, sea, and sand, Langkawi offers a tropical paradise just a short flight from Singapore. Explore the pristine beaches, go island hopping to Pulau Payar Marine Park, and ascend the Sky Bridge for panoramic views. Langkawi’s laid-back atmosphere, duty-free shopping, and diverse outdoor activities make it an ideal destination for a relaxing weekend escape.
Tioman Island – Scenic Seclusion
If seclusion and natural beauty are on your weekend wish list,Tioman Island is a gem waiting to be discovered. With its crystal-clear waters, coral reefs teeming with marine life, and lush rainforests, Tioman provides an idyllic setting for relaxation. Snorkel in the marine-rich waters, trek through the tropical jungles, and unwind on pristine beaches. Tioman Island offers a serene retreat away from the hustle and bustle.
In conclusion, these seven weekend getaways from Singapore to Malaysia present a diverse tapestry of experiences, catering to every traveler’s preferences. Whether you seek cultural immersion, culinary adventures, or the soothing embrace of nature, Malaysia’s proximity offers an array of options. So, the next time you feel the need for a quick escape, consider these enchanting destinations for a weekend filled with culture, adventure, and relaxation. Elevate your weekends by exploring the wondersthat Malaysia has to offer, just ashort journey away from the vibrant city of Singapore.
Read on to discover all about Tanjung Piai, that’s close to Singapore and also mainland Asia’s southernmost tip, and why by the end of this, you’ll want to make a visit to experience it for yourself.
Tanjung Piai
Tanjung Piai is the answer, at the cape of Pontian, Johor and is a must place to visit due to its many unique features, and offers visitors a great alternative to city destination holidays.
The park is in fact Peninsula Malaysia’s and mainland Asia’s southernmost tip. Getting here to enjoy nature and all its beauty is made even special by the fact that you’re at the southern tip of the continent.
Tanjung Piai National Park is characterized by deep twisting mangroves of 526 hectares and inter-tidal mudflat lands, another area of 400 hectares, which provide much of the support to the eco system in the park, surrounding forestry as well as protection to some of the animals and insect in this habitat.
1. How To Go To Tanjung Piai National Park From Singapore
You can reach Tanjung Piai National Park from Senai International Airport in just 72 minutes by car, and it takes just 75 minutes to from Singapore Tuas Checkpoint. Besides that, it’s about 13 minute drive from Kukup. Perhaps you can take a visit here while you’re having a holiday in Kukup. Transport to Tanjung Piai as describe in below:
1.1 Bus To Tanjung Piai National Park From Singapore
Currently, there are no direct coaches or public bus to Tanjung Piai National Park from Singapore or other bus terminals in Malaysia too. Thus, the most convenient and time efficient way to travel here is by private car.
2. Tanjung Piai National Park Attractions
There is plenty to see and do at the park, and we’re sure you’ll find more than one activity for every member of the family to enjoy.
Coming in from an elevated walkway you can’t miss this section from the main entrance. Here, visitors purchase entrance tickets to the park with these located here too:
Multipurpose hall
Souvenir shop
Prayer room
Park’s office
2.2 Tanjung Piai National Park Landmark Monument
The landmark of Tanjung Piai Pontian Johor is a monument made from eco-friendly concrete that reaches a height of 20 meters and only 10 centimeters wide.
The monument is grey in color and reflects the muddy flatlands and twist mangroves that stem from the forest floor.
On the face monument, visitors can clearly see two ferns of an indigenous fern which Tanjung Piai gets its name, the Paku Piai Raya fern, which is native to Tanjung Piai’s forests.
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2.3 Boardwalk
Elevated wood boardwalk connects the different parts of the park and takes visitors directly to the center of the mangrove forest without having to step in the grey sticky mud.
The boardwalk totals 1200 meters provides visitors with a nature experience plus light exercise.
2.4 Observation Tower
The panoramic views and spectacular sights of the forest is breath taking from the two observation towers and numerous viewing platforms.
Here visitors are surrounded by nature and can view levels of the forest from the mangrove mud floors till the canopy, home to many species of birds.
2.5 Campsite
Visitors to Tanjung Piai National Park can opt to stay in camps at the campsite of the park for a truly unique experience.
The campsite has a total of 30 elevated tents and is divided into sections for male and female and can accommodate at any one time up to 120 guests.
2.6 Jetty & The Southern Most Tip
Coming off your boardwalk, you’ll walk directly to the jetty area and the southernmost point that’s marked by a plaque and also a globe monument to mark the significance of Tanjung Piai.
Also off the boardwalk is the jetty area, another popular spot among visitors to witness boats and tankers pulling out towards the sea.
With so much to discover, visitors will be spoilt for choice as to what activity to partake in, but whether your choice is more leisurely one or a full on activity, you’ll certainly find a match for your pace below:
Sunset Viewing and Observation of passing ships on the Straits of Malacca
Firefly Trail
Nightwalk
Obstacle Course and Southern Race
Fishing
4. Facilities At Tanjung Piai National Park
For the comfort of visitors to the park these are facilities provided within the park:
Washroom
Prayer Room
AV Room
Souvenir Shop
Information gallery
Fishing platform
Campsite
5. Tanjung Piai National Park Visitor Tips
For visitors a quick list on useful information and tips before you head out to Tanjung Piai National Park:
Wear comfortable neutral colored clothes along with sturdy, comfortable walking closed toe shoes.
Protect yourself with insect repellents, sunglasses and a hat.
Bring extra clothes, water. Stationary (book, pen) and personal equipment (binoculars, camera).
Monkeys do approach visitors. Do not feed them or wear shiny items such as jewelry as this attracts them.
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Tanjung Piai National Park GPS Coordinates: 1.2681° N, 103.5087° E Contact: +607-696 9712 Email:[email protected] Opening Hours:
Tuesday to Sunday: 9:00a.m – 5:00p.m
Closed on: Monday
6. Tanjung Piai National Park Entrance Fees
6.1 Entrance Fee For Malaysian
Adult: RM5
Student (below 18 years old): RM3
Senior Citizen (50 years old and above): RM3
Child (6 years old and below): Free entry
6.2 Entrance Fee For International Traveler:
Adult: RM20
Student (below 18 years old): RM10
Senior Citizen (50 years old and above): RM10
Child (6 years old and below): Free entry
7. Tanjung Piai Resort Pontian Johor
A 20 minute walk away from the park there’s also Tanjung Piai Resort so that guests don’t need to travel far and be close to the park. It makes sense for visitors to choose to stay closest to the park as possible to maximize their visit.
A range of outdoor activities are arranged by the resort to challenge the adventurer in you, view the complete list of activities below:
Kayak
Jetty Jump
Paintball
ATV
Camp Fire
Cycling
River Obstacle
Archery
Fishing
Camping Site
Coconut Climbing
Target Range [Paintball]
Telematch
Tanjung Piai Resort Pontian Johor Location: J48, Tanjung Piai, 82030 Kukup, Johor, Malaysia. Contact: +607-696 0011 Facebook
While Malaysia is known for its beaches, its hill stations are some of the most beautiful locations of the country. From the adventure parks of Genting Highlands to the verdant locales of Kelabit Highlands, and from the endless hiking trails of Bukit Tinggi to the birdwatching opportunities at Fraser Hill, hill stations in Malaysia offer travellers unforgettable adventures. Join us on a voyage across some of Malaysia’s finest hill stations as we explore their pleasant climates and natural attractions.
Best hill stations in Malaysia
Genting Highlands
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Genting Highlands offers a seamless blend of natural beauty and urban amenities, making it one of the most popular hill stations in Malaysia. Located on Mount Ulu Kali’s summit at an elevation of 1800 metres, it is home to Resorts World Genting, a popular integrated resort featuring casinos and theme parks.
Location: Pahang Best time to visit: March to September Things to do: Ride the Genting SkyWay cable system, and visit Sky Casino Restaurants to try: Burger & Lobster Genting, Tavern in the Sky, and Spice Garden Hotels to stay: Resorts World Genting, Genting SkyWorlds Hotel, and Grand Ion Delemen Hotel
How to reach
By air: Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport is approximately 42 km away By train: Batang Kali KTM Station is approximately 78 km away
Cameron Highlands
Image credit: Ravin Rau/Unsplash
Known for its lush rolling hills and valleys, Cameron Highlands is one of the top hill stations in Malaysia. Home to picturesque walking trails, butterfly farms, verdant tea plantations, cascading waterfalls, and charming strawberry farms, it is one of the most visited hill stations in Malaysia by locals and tourists alike.
Location: Pahang Best time to visit: February to July Things to do: Hike across Mossy Forest, visit Lavender Garden, and shop at the local markets Restaurants to try: Scott’s Cafe, Singh Chapati, and Sri Brinchang Hotels to stay: Cameron Highlands Resort, Strawberry Park Resort, and Kinta Riverfront Hotel & Suites
How to reach
By air: Ipoh Airport is approximately 33 km away By train: Tapah Road Railway Station is approximately 68 km away
Penang Hill
Image credit: Jakub Specjalski/Shutterstock
Located in the heart of Penang Island, Penang Hill is a popular hill resort. Also known as Bukit Bendera, it is considered the oldest colonial hill station in Southeast Asia. Several lookout points across its multiple peaks offer breathtaking views of lush forests, the azure blue sea, sandy beaches, and magnificent sunsets.
Location: Air Itam suburb Best time to visit: December to February Things to do: Visit Penang Botanic Gardens and Penang Butterfly Farm, ride the iconic Penang Hill funicular, and spend a day at the Wonder Food Museum Restaurants to try: David Brown’s Restaurant & Tea Terrace, Hillview Cafe, and Marrybrown Hotels to stay: DoubleTree Resort by Hilton, DeView Hotel, and Berjaya Penang Hotel
How to reach
By air: Penang International Airport is approximately 16 km away By train: Butterworth Railway Station is approximately 26 km away
Bukit Tinggi
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Home to the popular Colmar Tropicale, a beautiful French-themed village resort and theme park, Bukit Tinggi is a quaint hill station in Pahang. One of the best hill stations in Malaysia, it is also home to the Berjaya Hills Resort, a major attraction for those seeking a retreat from the hustle and bustle of Kuala Lumpur, which is less than 60 km away. Located on the scenic Kuala Lumpur-Karak Expressway connecting it to Genting Highlands, Bukit Tinggi is a popular stopover for locals and tourists.
Location: Bentong, Pahang Best time to visit: March to September Things to do: Visit the Chin Swee Caves Temple, explore the Japanese Tea House, and spend a day at the Rabbit Farm. Restaurants to try: La Flamme, La Blason, and Fantasy Valley Restaurant Hotels to stay: Colmar Tropicale, Berjaya Hills Resort, and The Chateau Spa & Wellness Resort
How to reach
By air: Minangkabau Airport is approximately 54 km away By train: Batang Kali Railway Station is approximately 75 km away
Fraser Hill
Image credit: Neoh Chee Kong/Shutterstock
Fraser Hill, known as Bukit Fraser in Malay, is popular for its verdant forests, walking trails, and diverse birdlife. Still relatively unexplored, it offers plenty of hiking opportunities that lead to waterfalls, lakes, dams, and rolling meadows. The forested areas are home to Malay tigers, harbour panthers, and sun bears.
Location: Pahang Best time to visit: April to September Things to do: Visit the Jeriau Waterfall, go for a walk on the Pine Tree Trail or the Bishop Trail, and go on a paddle boat ride across Allan’s Water Lake Restaurants to try: Aida Daniya Restaurant & English Teahouse, Ye Olde Smokehouse, and Restoran Ratha Raub Hotels to stay: The Pines @ Fraser Hills, Puncak Inn, and Fraser’s Silverpark Resort
How to reach
By air: Kuala Lumpur International Airport is approximately 155 km away By train: Kuala Kubu Bharu Railway Station is approximately 41 km away
Bukit Larut
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A quaint little hill station in Malaysia, Bukit Larut, formerly known as Maxwell Hill, is famous for its rolling hills and meadows adorned with a variety of flowers, including petunias, roses, tulips, marigolds, dahlias, daisies, and pansies. Located on the Bintang Mountain Range, Bukit Larut is one of the most biodiverse regions in Malaysia, hosting more than 20% of the country’s plant species.
Location: Perak Best time to visit: March to October Things to do: Enjoy the Taiping Zoo & Night Safari, spend an evening at Taiping Lake Gardens, and enjoy a short hike at Kaki Bukit Larut Restaurants to try: Taiping Seven Village Noodle House, Carson Grill, and The Mask Cafe Hotels to stay: Novotel Taiping Perak, Flemington Hotel, and Hotel Casuarina
How to reach
By air: Taiping (Tekah) Airport is approximately 8 km away By train: Taiping Railway Station is approximately 9 km away
One of the most unexplored hill stations of Malaysia, Kelabit Highlands boasts magnificent mountain ranges, lush forests, rolling hills, and quaint villages. With its pleasant weather and diverse flora, it offers options through forests and rice fields, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.
Location: Sarawak Best time to visit: March to September Things to do: Attend the annual three-day Bario Food Festival in July, visit the natural salt springs of Pa Umor, trek through jungles and villages Restaurants to try: Boon Kee Restaurant, Cloude Town Cafe, and Chan’s Restaurant Hotels to stay: The Ngimat Ayu House and Bulan and Daud Homestay
How to reach
By air: Marudi Airport is approximately 6 km away By train: Bandar Tasik Selatan Railway Station is approximately 2,949 km away
-What is the best time to visit Malaysia’s hill stations? It is best to avoid the monsoon seasons when visiting Malaysia’s hill stations. Visit the east coast from March to October, and the south coast from November to March.
-What are the things to do at Malaysian hill stations? You can enjoy trekking, adventure activities, spa therapies, birdwatching, and more at Malaysia’s hill stations.
-Are there any unique attractions in Cameron Highlands? The Time Tunnel Museum is one of the most unique attractions in Cameron Highlands. This museum showcases historical memorabilia and artefacts of the country.
-Can I experience a cool climate at Malaysia’s hill stations? Yes, Malaysia’s hill stations experience cool and pleasant weather almost all through the year.
-Is Genting Highlands suitable for family vacations? Yes, Genting Highlands is a popular destination for family vacations.
-Are there hiking trails in Malaysian hill stations? Most hill stations in Malaysia are home to verdant hiking trails suitable for people of all age groups.
-Are there cultural experiences in the hill stations of Malaysia? From temples to food festivals, museums to historical sites, hill stations in Malaysia are home to several cultural experiences.
