1. Pahang (from USD 34)

A large state in Peninsular Malaysia, Pahang features wondrous mountains, beautiful rainforests, and pristine sandy beaches. One of its most-sought-after attractions is the Tioman Island, a white sand beach which has an abundance of coral reefs. If you’re tired of the beaches, then you have to go to Cameron Highlands, which offers resorts, tea plantations, and farms. You should also see the village of Fraser’s Hill which is like an English Hamlet, which will make you feel like you’ve been transported in a different place.

Pahang is 253.5 km (157.52 mi) away from Kuala Lumpur and it will take you almost three hours of travel time to get there.

2. Kuantan (from USD 46)

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Located in the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia, Kuantan is one of beautiful towns that’s rich with traditions, culture, and history. At the heart of the city, you’ll find the modern Sultan Ahmad Shah State Mosque, which features five domes that are beautifully adorned with blue geometric patterns and has four towering minarets. Another must-visit attraction is the seafront Taman Teruntum park, wherein you’ll find a landscape garden and a mini zoo.

Kuantan is 237.1 km (147.33 mi) away from Kuala Lumpur and it will take you almost four hours of travel time to get there.

3. Penang (from USD 172)

In need of a short break from Kuala Lumpur? If you’re a history buff, there’s no better place to be in Malaysia than in Penang. With its kaleidoscope of culture, you’ll surely have lots of fun times discovering and learning new things. You’ll find in the center of Penang, its capital, George Town, which is a mixture of old Asia and influences of Europe, which is very evident in its architecture, arts, food, and local scene. In case you want to explore more, visit the fishing villages, the palm-fringed beaches, jungles, and farms that grow durian and nutmeg trees.

Penang is 355.2 km (220.71 mi) away from Kuala Lumpur and it will take you almost four hours of travel time to get there.

4. Bentong (from USD 985)

Bentong is popular for its ginger and being a foodie haven. It has a thriving food scene and a great source of fresh produce that draws locals and tourist alike. If you’re working for a food industry or are just an enthusiast, you’ll love joining factory tours, including the Soy sauce factory, where you’ll learn the process of fermenting soybeans to make condiments. Another is the Tofu Puff Factory which has been in the owner’s family for 100 years now. Here, you’ll learn how beans are transformed into tofu puffs.

Bentong is 68.3 km (42.44 mi) away from Kuala Lumpur and it will take you more or less one hour of travel time to get there. This destination is truly worthy of a short trip away from KL.

5. Sekinchan (from USD 34)

A beachside village that features numerous rice paddies because of its fertile soil, Sekinchan is one beautiful area that offers lots of natural wonders, including being home to migratory birds like herons. As the center of the rice industry in Malaysia, you’ll also find, here, the Paddy Processing Factory that has a museum that exhibits collections about the local rice industry. Another attraction is the Nan Tian Temple, which is an elaborate shrine that sits in the town’s many rice fields.

Sekinchan is 94.9 km (58.97 mi) away from Kuala Lumpur and it will take you one and a half hour of travel time to get there.

6. Kulai (from USD 31)

Located in the state of Johor, Malaysia - Kulai is the capital of the District by the same name. The primary source of income here is agriculture, especially in the oil palm and rubber fields surrounding the town. One of the attractions you must visit while in the area is Mount Pulai, which has a marvelous waterfall and two recreational forests that you will surely enjoy. Apart from nature, Kulai also boasts shopping outlets, like the Johor Premium Outlets, which was the first ever luxury premium brand outlet in Southeast Asia.

Kulai is 302.1 km (187.72 mi) away from Kuala Lumpur and it will take you more than three hours of travel time to get there.

7. Ipoh (from USD 161)

Ipoh received its city status in 1988. It wasn’t a frequented spot back then, but the city has since proved that it’s a worthy destination due to the ornate British colonial architecture featured in numerous structures. Ipoh has made its name in the culinary industry, having one of the best-tasting cuisines, and is now regarded as one of the cleanest cities in the country.

Ipoh is 180 km (111 mi) away from Kuala Lumpur, and it will take you two hours of travel time to get there.

8. Johor Bahru (from USD 75)

Located along the Straits of Johor is the lively town of Johor Bahru. The Grand Palace building houses the Royal Abu Bakar Museum, which is one of the top cultural attractions in town. Figure Museum, Sultan Ibrahim Building, and Johor Art Gallery are only a few of the many significant landmarks that you’ll get to enjoy once you visit.

Johor Bahru is 331.2 km (105 mi) away from Kuala Lumpur, and it will take you more than three hours of travel time to get there.

9. Kuala Selangor (from USD 33)

Steer away from the busy nature of Kuala Lumpur and find retreat in the peaceful town of Kuala Selangor. This quiet and modest paradise is home to historical attractions that you may miss if you’re not looking hard enough. Such attractions are Bukit Belanda (Dutch Hill), War Memorial, Royal Mausoleum, and Melawati Fort. It is also believed that the Poisoned Well at Kuala Selangor was used to drown traitors during wartime.

Kuala Selangor is 66 km (41 mi) away from Kuala Lumpur, and it will take you just about an hour of travel time to get there.

10. Raub (from USD 19)

One of the oldest towns in the state of Pahang is the sleepy town of Raub, which used to be a gold mining settlement. Bukit Fraser (or Fraser’s Hill) is one of the most popular highlands in the country. Going to Raub will get you closer to other landmarks such as Bukit Telaga Waterfalls, known for its turbulent rapids, and Jeram Besu Rapids, which is one of the best kayaking and rafting sports in Malaysia.

Raub is 103.5 km (64 mi) away from Kuala Lumpur, and it will take you about an hour and a half of travel time to get there.

11. Taman Negara (from USD 128)

Nestled in Peninsular Malaysia is the national park of Taman Negara, which houses the world’s oldest tropical rainforests, which is over 130 million years old. If you’re particularly looking for a nature trip as your weekend getaway from Kuala Lumpur, Taman Negara is the way to go. Strolling along the canopy walkways, hiking under the lush rainforests, camping, and witnessing the rich wildlife are only a few of the many outdoor activities you can do at the national park.

Taman Negara is 239 km (148.5 mi) away from Kuala Lumpur, and it will take you 3.5 hours of travel time to get there.

12. Melaka (from USD 35)

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The capital of the coastal state of Malacca, Melaka, whose catchphrase says, ‘Don’t mess with Melaka’, features ancient architecture and glorious history, which will lure tourists. At its heart, you’ll find the famous Jonker Street, which is known for being a colorful hub of antique shops and night markets. Another must-visit is its ancient religious sites, including the 17th-century Chinese Cheng Hoon Teng temple that features beautiful ornate decor and many prayer halls; and the Kampung Kling Mosque with its Javanese influences.

Melaka is 145.1 km (90.16 mi) away from Kuala Lumpur and it will take you about two hours of travel time to get there.

13. Terengganu (from USD 134)

Well-known for intricate local fabrics like Kain Songket and Kain Batik, Terengganu is located in the eastern coast of Peninsular Malaysia and has mostly a Malay population and they share the same culture and traditions. Many tourists go here to do island hopping, snorkeling, scuba diving, and other water activities. Another attraction is Tasik Kenyir, which is a reservoir lake in Ulu Terengganu that will provide you spectacular panoramas.

Terengganu is 449.9 km (279.55 mi) away from Kuala Lumpur and it will take you more than four and a half hours of travel time to get there.

14. Gopeng (from USD 60)

Gopeng is a town in Kampar District in Malaysia that has once been the center of the mining industry in the country. As time pass by this little town has evolved into an eco-tourism destination that is rich in heritage, culture, and food scene. One activity that you shouldn’t miss while you’re here is the white water at Kampar River. Here, you’ll be undertaking wild rapids and floats down the river’s clear waters amidst a rich rainforest. As for the caving part, you’ll be exploring the Gua Tempurung and see the beautiful labyrinth of stalagmites and stalactites. Also, at the end of the stalagmite is a river that has wondrous pebbles that will make for a good souvenir.

Gopeng is 182.3 km (113.28 mi) away from Kuala Lumpur and it will take you almost two hours of travel time to get there.

15. Negeri Sembilan (from USD 118)

Located on the Malay Peninsula in the southwest coast, Negeri Sembilan is a great summer destination for its sandy beaches, beautiful nature parks, and stunning palaces. One of the attractions you shouldn’t miss here is the Cape Rachado, which is an expansive nature reserve that has a lighthouse that will give you a spectacular view of the sea and its surroundings. Other points of interest include Port Dickson with its seaside resorts, the Wan Loong Chinese Temple, and the Kota Lukut hilltop fort.

Negeri Sembilan is 64.3 km (39.95 mi) away from Kuala Lumpur and it will take you less than an hour of travel time to get there. Make this destination your KL weekend getaway.

Hello Kuala Lumpur

You’ll never regret visiting this beautiful city in Malaysia. Kuala Lumpur has lots to offer, starting from its iconic Petronas Tower up to hidden villages, coastal towns with its pristine beaches, food factories, and more. Once you’ve visited all the best places and accomplished the best things to do alone or with a group, check out the best day trips and tours too.