Where to Visit in Malaysia in December? Top Winter Escapes

As the year comes to a close, many of us are already planning our next adventure. And what better place to visit than Malaysia, a country that offers a unique blend of cultures, cuisines, and landscapes? December is a great time to visit Malaysia, with warm weather, festive atmosphere, and plenty of exciting events and festivals to look forward to. But with so many amazing destinations to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide where to go. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey to explore the best places to visit in Malaysia in December, from bustling cities to stunning natural wonders.

Penang: A Foodie’s Paradise

Penang is a must-visit destination for any food lover. This island state is famous for its delicious street food, night markets, and hawker centers, offering a wide range of cuisines from Malay, Chinese, and Indian to Western and fusion. December is a great time to visit Penang, with the annual Penang Food Festival taking place in mid-December. This festival celebrates the state’s culinary heritage with cooking demonstrations, food stalls, and live music performances.

Top Attractions in Penang:

• Georgetown Heritage Trail: Explore the historic city center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and admire the colonial architecture, temples, and mosques.
• Penang Hill: Take a funicular train ride to the top of the hill for panoramic views of the city and sea.
• Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion: Visit this iconic blue mansion, a blend of Chinese and European architecture, and learn about its fascinating history.
• Penang Night Market: Shop for souvenirs, try street food, and experience the vibrant night market atmosphere.

Kuala Lumpur: A City of Contrasts

Kuala Lumpur, the capital city of Malaysia, is a bustling metropolis that offers a mix of modern and traditional attractions. December is a great time to visit KL, with the annual KL Festival taking place in late December. This festival features cultural performances, food stalls, and shopping promotions.

Top Attractions in Kuala Lumpur:

• Petronas Twin Towers: Take a guided tour of the iconic towers and enjoy the stunning views of the city from the observation deck.
• Batu Caves: Explore the largest Hindu temple in Malaysia, a series of limestone caves, and climb the 272 steps to the top.
• Central Market: Shop for souvenirs, try local food, and experience the vibrant atmosphere of this historic market.
• KLCC Park: Relax in this beautiful park, featuring a lake, walking trails, and plenty of greenery.

Langkawi: A Tropical Paradise

Langkawi, an archipelago of 99 islands in the Andaman Sea, is a tropical paradise that offers stunning beaches, lush forests, and exciting water sports. December is a great time to visit Langkawi, with warm weather and plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.

Top Attractions in Langkawi:

• Pantai Cenang Beach: Relax on this beautiful beach, featuring white sand and crystal-clear waters.
• Dataran Langkawi: Explore this scenic park, featuring a lake, walking trails, and plenty of greenery.
• Cable Car and Sky Bridge: Take a ride on the cable car and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding islands and sea.
• Underwater World Langkawi: Explore the marine life of the Andaman Sea at this popular aquarium.

Cameron Highlands: A Cool Retreat

Cameron Highlands, a hill station in the Titiwangsa Mountains, is a cool retreat from the heat of the city. December is a great time to visit Cameron Highlands, with mild weather and plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. (See Also: Where to Visit in Edmonton? Top Attractions Revealed)

Top Attractions in Cameron Highlands:

• Boh Tea Plantation: Take a tour of the tea plantation and learn about the tea-making process.
• Cameron Highlands Night Market: Shop for souvenirs, try local food, and experience the vibrant night market atmosphere.
• Strawberry Farm: Pick your own strawberries and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding hills.
• Brinchang Night Market: Explore this bustling night market, featuring a wide range of stalls selling souvenirs, food, and drinks.

Sabah: A Nature Lover’s Paradise

Sabah, a state in Malaysian Borneo, is a nature lover’s paradise that offers stunning natural wonders, including rainforests, mountains, and beaches. December is a great time to visit Sabah, with warm weather and plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.

Top Attractions in Sabah:

• Kinabatangan River: Take a boat tour along the river and spot proboscis monkeys, pygmy elephants, and other wildlife.
• Mulu National Park: Explore the stunning natural beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring rainforests, caves, and mountains.
• Sipadan Island: Dive or snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of this island, known for its coral reefs and marine life.
• Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park: Explore the islands of this national park, featuring beaches, forests, and wildlife.

Recap and Recommendations

In conclusion, Malaysia has plenty to offer in December, from bustling cities to stunning natural wonders. Whether you’re a foodie, a nature lover, or an adventure seeker, there’s something for everyone in this amazing country. Here are some recommendations for your trip:

• Book your accommodations in advance to avoid the peak season prices.
• Pack light, breathable clothing and comfortable shoes for your outdoor adventures.
• Try the local cuisine, including street food, night markets, and hawker centers.
• Be prepared for the heat and humidity, and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
• Respect the local culture and customs, and be mindful of your surroundings.

FAQs

What is the best way to get around Malaysia?

The best way to get around Malaysia depends on your destination and personal preference. You can use taxis, buses, or ride-hailing services, or rent a car or motorbike. Many cities also have a comprehensive public transportation system, including trains and buses.

What is the best time to visit Malaysia?

The best time to visit Malaysia depends on your preferences. December is a great time to visit, with warm weather and plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. However, if you prefer cooler weather, consider visiting in March or April, when the temperatures are milder. If you’re looking for a beach vacation, consider visiting in September or October, when the weather is warm and sunny. (See Also: Where to Visit in Tenerife? Top Hidden Gems)

What are the must-try foods in Malaysia?

Malaysia is famous for its delicious street food, night markets, and hawker centers. Some must-try foods include nasi lemak, char kway teow, hainanese chicken rice, and laksa. Be sure to also try some of the local fruits, such as durians, rambutans, and mangosteens.

What are the best places to shop in Malaysia?

Malaysia is a shopper’s paradise, with plenty of shopping malls, night markets, and street stalls. Some of the best places to shop include Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, Suria KLCC, and The Gardens Mall in Kuala Lumpur, and Gurney Plaza and Gurney Paragon in Penang. Be sure to also try some of the local markets, such as the night markets in Cameron Highlands and Langkawi.

What are the best places to visit in Malaysia for families?

Malaysia is a great destination for families, with plenty of theme parks, water parks, and zoos. Some of the best places to visit include Universal Studios Malaysia, Sunway Lagoon, and the Kuala Lumpur Zoo and Aquarium. You can also visit the beaches and islands, such as Langkawi and Sabah, for some fun in the sun. (See Also: Where to Visit in Northeast Usa? Hidden Gems)

What are the best places to visit in Malaysia for couples?

Malaysia is a romantic destination, with plenty of beautiful beaches, islands, and cities to explore. Some of the best places to visit include Langkawi, Penang, and Kuala Lumpur, which offer a mix of culture, history, and natural beauty. You can also take a romantic getaway to the Cameron Highlands or Sabah, which offer stunning natural scenery and outdoor activities.