Northern Malaysia's Inlands & Islands
Rainforests or beaches? Traditional villages or modern cities? We get it - Northern Malaysia is home to so much diversity, it can be hard to know where to begin. And that’s why we created this trip.
Leading you through the sights, sounds, flora and fauna of Malaysia’s lesser travelled reaches, this all-encompassing overland itinerary can be tailored to suit your preferences to a T. Want more exotic culture? More exotic creatures? Bring us your ideas.
Pricing
Key facts
Transport in detail
Most journeys will be by private car, with the exception of two boat transfers (to the Perhentian Islands and back).
What's great
This is a trip that combines well-known Northern Malaysian destinations and lesser visited areas – from towns and villages to rainforests and beaches – to show you all the region has to offer
With plenty of guided experiences, you’ll get beneath the surface of the country’s history and culture
Travel is entirely overland, so you’ll travel slowly and see more of the country instead of sitting around in airports
Things to consider
This trip does not include Kuala Lumpur – but it ticks off George Town, which is a similarly vibrant urban centre
The Perhentian Islands are best visited from March to October, but we can suggest alternatives
The homestay accommodation in Kuala Kangsar is rustic, but extremely friendly
The rainforest is a magical experience no matter what, but wildlife sightings are never guaranteed
The experience
Day 1-2
Penang
Welcome to Penang: an island chock full of markets and hawker stalls. We’re taking you straight into the action – hop on board a beca (the local name for trishaw) with your guide and head for the Red Garden Food Paradise night market. On day two, encounter layers of history and flashes of modernity in the form of World Heritage-listed architectural wonders, traditional craft workshops and contemporary street art on a guided city walking tour. Finish on the city’s spiritual side as you get to grips with the local practice of ancestor worship at the imposing Khoo Kongsi temple, and then down the ‘Street of Harmony’ into Little India. You’ll leave with a taste of all Penang has to offer.
Highlights
Taste an eclectic array of authentic street food dishes at the Red Garden Food Paradise night market
See modern street art and World Heritage-listed architectural wonders on a guided walking tour of George Town
Discover the ancient practice of ancestor worship at the elaborate Khoo Kongsi Chinese clanhouse
Day 3-4
Kuala Kangsar
Moving inland, it’s on to Kuala Kangsar and then the SukaSuka Lake Retreat homestay, set at the edge of Lake Chenderoh, with its backdrop of forested mountains. We’re whisking you, first by boat and then on foot, to a traditional Malaysian village deep in the countryside. With a guide to act as navigator, translator and general font of local knowledge, wander between wooden stilted houses and drink Teh Tarik (tea and condensed milk, to the rest of us) with the locals. Each evening at SukaSuka, you’re free to enjoy those watery views, kayak the lake or hike to a nearby waterfall. A BBQ and traditional Malay dinner are both ample reward after days spent embracing country life.
Highlights
Take in Kuala Kangsar’s regal opulence at the spectacular Ubudiah Mosque and Royal Museum
Explore Lake Chenderoh by kayak before settling into the family-run SukaSuka homestay with a barbecue dinner and local games
Wander amongst stilted houses and drink Teh Tarik as you explore a traditional Malaysian village
The finer detail
What's included
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Breakfast every day
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Six lunches: one in Penang; two in the Kuala Kangsar homestay; two in your Belum Rainforest lodge on Banding Island; one in Kota Bharu
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Five dinners: one street food tour in Penang; two in the Kuala Kangsar homestay; two in your Belum Rainforest lodge
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One full-day experience: city tour of Penang
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One half-day experience: city and village tour in Kota Bharu
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One evening experience: Penang's hawker markets
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Homestay in Kuala Kangsar, including cultural activities and kayaking on the lake
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Two night stay on Banding Island in the Belum Rainforest, including jungle activities
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All entrance fees to sites included in guided experiences
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All internal transport and accommodation
Logistics and journey times
Day 1:
Car transfer from Penang Airport to City (45 min)
Day 3:
Car transfer from Penang to Kuala Kangsar (2.5 hours)
Day 5:
Car transfer from Kuala Kangsar to Banding Island (1 hour 45 min)
Day 7:
Car transfer from Banding Island to Kota Bharu (3 hours)
Day 8:
Car and boat transfer from Kota Bharu to Perhentian Islands (1 hour 15 min drive & 30 min boat ride)
Day 12:
Boat and car transfer from Perhentian Islands to airport (30 min boat ride & 1 hour 15 min drive)
What's not included
- International flights
- Any necessary visas
- Any lunches or dinners unless stated
- Entrance fees to any sites not included in guided experiences
- Tipping and personal expenses
- Tourist taxes and any National Park fees