Mystic Malaysia

Diverse doesn’t come close to defining this remarkable country. From the feverish dynamism and ultra-modern skyscrapers of its capital, Kuala Lumpur, to the steeply undulating tea plantation-covered hills and cool serenity of the Cameron Highlands to the steamy, primal rainforests and wildlife of Borneo, Malaysia is an inspirationally peaceful and tolerant mix of cultures and religions. Malay, Chinese Malaysian, Hindu and Muslim Indians contently rub shoulders together. Each ethnic group has its own cultures, cuisine and language, all making for delicious culinary delights and an array of spectacularly colourful festivals.

Kuala Lumpur is a metropolis of 21st century towers and colonial-era shops, mingled with lush greenery, where shoppers flip flop between traditional wet markets and air-conditioned mega malls. Dominating the city are the Petronas Towers, where a visit will leave you both giddy and mesmerised by the sight of the bustling city below. Follow this with a casual meander along Petaling Street. The market here is the heart of Chinatown. Whatever time of the day, you are sure to find amazing produce and street food here. Rest awhile at one of the newest temples in the city. Thean Hou embraces Tao, Buddhist and Confucianism beliefs, but the experience of the temple at dusk, with its many illuminated lanterns will stir anyone with the scent of burning incense, perfumed flowers and stunningly colourful artworks.

Limstone Caverns and Golden Statues

A short distance North of Kuala Lumpur are the Batu Caves, found in a series of dramatic limestone caverns and guarded by a magnificent 130-foot golden statue of Murugan, the Hindu god of war. Within the caverns, monkeys play happily on the brightly coloured steps leading to more Hindu temples and statues.

No visit to Malaysia is complete without a trip to the Cameron Highlands. The climate here is slightly cooler, with several natural attractions from natural waterfalls that fill your ears with the crashing sound of water, to lavender farms that fill the air with their scents, and mossy forests to stroll through. With all that done, what more perfect way to end your day by sipping a cup of tea, overlooking the lush green fields of a tea plantation.

To the South lie the historically important states of Malacca and Penang, homes to the UNESCO World Heritage cities of George Town and Malacca. Stroll through the lanes of George Town’s Old Town, soaking in their vividly coloured heritage architecture, then sample the famously mouth-watering array of local street food. Visit the cultural here and you won't be disappointed. The Khoo Kongsi Chinese clan house, dripping in ornate decoration is a sight to feast your eyes on. The beautiful Kek Lok Si temple is the largest Buddhist temple anywhere in Malaysia, its seven-storey pagoda lined with 10,000 statues of Buddha are here along with the goddess of mercy statue, measuring 120 feet high. Five and a half hours further South, Malacca is a no less fascinating and rewarding visit. Although a small city, Malacca possesses a vibrant mix of customs, traditions, food and lifestyle. See the many cultural treasures by river cruise or, for those who prefer a calmer and leisurely exploration, by trishaw. The extraordinary Jonker Street Night Market is an experience like no other, or watching the sun set on the sublime architecture of the Malacca Straits Mosque is a sight that is sure to last long in your memory.

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