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Malaysia Road Trip

Kuala Lumpur - Malacca - Kluang - Mersing - Pekan - Dungun - Kota Bharu - Gerik - Kuala Kedah - Langkawi Island - Penang Island - Ipoh - Sungai Besar

Expect on your itinerary

Landscape Landscape
Comfort Comfort
Road conditions Road conditions
Security Security
Benefit-stress ratio Benefit-stress ratio
Beach Beach
Urban life Urban life
Wildlife Wildlife
Malaysia Road Trip ACTIVATE MAP Stages13 km1,949 h/stage2.3

Best months to drive

I II III IV V VI
VII VIII IX X XI XII

Road Trip Costs

How much does it cost to go on a Malaysia Road Trip in Malaysia?

Economy
Low budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 630EUR drive & more 263EUR sleep & more 374EUR eat & more 1,008EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 1,645EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 2,275EUR
Standard
Mid budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 882EUR drive & more 350EUR sleep & more 924EUR eat & more 1,512EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 2,786EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 3,668EUR
Premium
High budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 1,764EUR drive & more 475EUR sleep & more 1,848EUR eat & more 2,016EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 4,339EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 6,103EUR
Camper
On the road in RV, overnight at camp grounds with self-catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 3,150EUR drive & more 525EUR sleep & more 770EUR eat & more 1,008EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 2,303EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 5,453EUR
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Malaysia Road Trip Itinerary

The Malaysia Road Trip is an excellent way to explore the beauty of Malaysia. Starting in the vibrant city of Kuala Lumpur and ending in the same place, this 1949 km journey takes you through some of the most beautiful parts of the country. Along the route you will visit Malacca, Kluang, Mersing, Dungun, Gerik, Langkawi Island, and Penang Island. Each of these places has something unique to offer, from breathtaking views to cultural attractions. The best time of the year to take this road trip is during the dry season, which spans from March to October. During this time, you’ll be able to enjoy the lush landscapes, as well as the warm temperatures. The roads are in excellent condition, though some parts may be quite curvy. Despite this, the road trip is suitable for drivers of all experience levels. Plus, you can manage it on a fair budget. All in all, the Malaysia Road Trip is an excellent way to experience the best of what Malaysia has to offer, with memories that will last a lifetime.
number of days 14 number of days
route length 1,949 km route length
budget moderate budget
good for family good for
traffic direction on the left traffic direction
accident level moderate accident level

START Kuala Lumpur

Distance 1,949 km Driving time 30.4 h Pace: fast 584.8 kWh Airports KUL
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Kuala Lumpur, the Malaysian capital, is the perfect starting point for the "Malaysia Road Trip". Take in the sights of the Petronas Twin Towers, the tallest twin buildings in the world, or check out the Batu Caves, a limestone hill with a temple complex and Hindu shrine. Or, get a panoramic view of the city from the KL Tower, one of the tallest towers in Southeast Asia. For those flying in, Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) is the ideal place to begin your journey. There are car rental services available at the airport, making it easy to pick up your vehicle and begin exploring the city and beyond. Kuala Lumpur is an exciting city and a great place to start your "Malaysia Road Trip". From the exciting nightlife and vibrant culture, to the stunning natural beauty, there's something for everyone. So plan your trip today and discover the amazing sights and sounds of Kuala Lumpur.

1 Kuala Lumpur - Malacca

Distance 131 km Driving time 1.8 h Pace: fast 39.4 kWh View map Itinerary
accommodation options EV charging station dining venues
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Embark on an amazing road trip from Kuala Lumpur to Malacca! This 131 km drive will take you less than two hours and will be one of the most memorable stages of your journey. Start your adventure in Kuala Lumpur and make sure to visit the iconic Petronas Twin Towers and the vibrant Chinatown. After that, you can also explore the National Mosque and the National Monument. Continue your journey to Malacca and discover the historical sites such as the A Famosa Fort and the St. Paul's Church. Don't forget to take a look at the Cheng Hoon Teng Temple, the oldest Chinese temple in Malaysia. Finally, the delightful Jonker Street is the perfect place to end your trip. Here you can find a variety of souvenirs, traditional snacks and local delicacies. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

2 Malacca - Kluang

Distance 155 km Driving time 2.0 h Pace: fast 46.5 kWh View map Itinerary
EV charging station dining venues
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Embark on a road trip from Malacca to Kluang for a journey of 155km that will take less than two hours. This is one of the stages of a larger tour, so be sure to check out the other stages for more exciting destinations. Start off in Malacca, a historical city filled with colonial-era architecture, temples, and museums. Make sure to visit the A Famosa Fort, St. Paul’s Hill, and the Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum. Travel along the trunk road and take in the lush greenery of the Malaysian countryside. Stop at the towns of Ayer Hitam and Yong Peng for a quick bite and some souvenirs. End your journey in Kluang, where you can explore the town’s colonial-era buildings, local markets, and the Kluang Railway Station. For a unique experience, visit the Kluang Rail Coffee, a cafe set in a refurbished railway carriage. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

3 Kluang - Mersing

Distance 88 km Driving time 1.4 h Pace: fast 26.3 kWh View map Itinerary
EV charging station dining venues scenic road stretches of winding road
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Kluang to Mersing! This 88 km drive takes less than two hours and takes you through some of the most stunning scenery in Malaysia. Along the way, make sure to take in the winding roads, lush green vegetation, and stunning views of the countryside. Don't forget to make stops at some of the most interesting places along the way, such as the Gunung Lambak Recreational Park, the Kluang Railway Station, the Gunung Arong Recreational Park, and the Mersing Jetty. Each of these places offer something unique and special, so make sure to take the time to explore them. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, make sure to check out the Itinerary for this stage of your road trip!

4 Mersing - Pekan

Distance 153 km Driving time 2.2 h Pace: fast 46.0 kWh View map Itinerary
accommodation options EV charging station dining venues
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The road trip from Mersing to Pekan is a 153 km journey, taking less than 3 hours to complete. This is one of the stages of an exciting tour that will take you to some of the most beautiful places in Malaysia! Start your journey in Mersing and make sure to visit the Mersing River Estuary and the Mersing Beach. Both are great spots for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. Then, head to the Endau-Rompin National Park, where you can explore the rainforest and spot some of the area's wildlife. Continue your journey to Pekan and make sure to visit the Pekan Mosque, the oldest mosque in Malaysia, and the Sultan Abu Bakar Museum, where you can learn more about the local culture and history. Don't forget to stop at the Pekan Recreational Park, where you can enjoy a picnic and take in the stunning views. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check out the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

5 Pekan - Dungun

Distance 194 km Driving time 3.0 h Pace: fast 58.3 kWh View map Itinerary
accommodation options EV charging station dining venues
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip from Pekan to Dungun? This 194km journey will take you less than 3 hours and you will have the opportunity to explore some of the most interesting places in Malaysia. Start your journey in Pekan and visit the Royal Museum, the Royal Mosque, and the Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque. From there, you can head to the nearby beach of Pantai Purnama and enjoy the stunning views of the South China Sea. Continue your journey to Dungun and explore the beautiful mangrove forests of Tasik Kenyir. You can also take a boat trip to the nearby islands and observe the wildlife of the area. After that, you can visit the nearby Dungun Beach and relax in the warm sand. To make the most of your road trip, don't forget to check the "Itinerary" of this stage. You will find more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable road trip from Pekan to Dungun!

6 Dungun - Kota Bharu

Distance 243 km Driving time 4.3 h Pace: modest 63.1 kWh View map Itinerary
interesting  historic site accommodation options dining venues scenic road stretches of winding road EV charging station
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Are you ready for an exciting road trip from Dungun to Kota Bharu? This 243 km journey will take you less than 5 hours of driving, with plenty of interesting sights to see along the way. Start your trip by visiting the beautiful Sungai Lebam beach, where you can take a break and enjoy the stunning views of the South China Sea. Then, take a drive through the winding roads of Jalan Dungun-Kuala Berang, where you can admire the lush jungles and the rolling hills of the Terengganu landscape. Continue your journey with a visit to the historical town of Kuala Terengganu, where you can explore the traditional Malay architecture and the many mosques that adorn the city. As you drive further north, you will come across the picturesque town of Kuala Nerus and the breathtaking views of the Kelantan River. Finally, you will arrive in Kota Bharu, where you can explore the vibrant night markets and the many cultural attractions. For more information about the attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Get your car ready and start your journey!

7 Kota Bharu - Gerik

Distance 226 km Driving time 3.5 h Pace: fast 67.9 kWh View map Itinerary
EV charging station dining venues
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip from Kota Bharu to Gerik? This is one of the stages of a larger tour, and it's only 226 km long, so you can make the trip in less than 4 hours. Start your journey in Kota Bharu, the capital of Kelantan and explore the cultural heritage of the city. Visit the Istana Jahar Museum, a palace built in 1887, and the Wat Photivihan, a Buddhist temple. On your way to Gerik, don’t miss out on the chance to visit the Gua Ikan, a limestone cave located on the banks of the Pergau River. It’s surrounded by lush vegetation and has a spectacular view of the river. Once you reach Gerik, explore the city’s many attractions. Visit the Gerik Waterfall, the highest waterfall in Malaysia, and the Kuala Woh Recreational Forest, a lush rainforest with a variety of wildlife. These are just a few of the amazing places you can visit on this road trip. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the road!

8 Gerik - Kuala Kedah

Distance 157 km Driving time 2.5 h Pace: fast 47.1 kWh View map Itinerary
accommodation options EV charging station dining venues scenic road stretches of winding road
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Embark on an exciting road trip from Gerik to Kuala Kedah, a 157km drive that will take you fewer than 3 hours. Along the way, you'll be treated to stunning views of the lush Malaysian countryside. The road is mostly straight but in some sections it is very winding, so be sure to keep your eyes on the road. You'll pass through small villages and towns, so take the time to explore and immerse yourself in the local culture. Make sure you visit the Gerik Hot Springs, a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The hot springs are believed to have healing properties, and the warm waters are a great way to relax after a long drive. In Kuala Kedah, you'll find the iconic Kota Kuala Kedah, a fort built in the 18th century. This historical site offers a glimpse into the past, with its unique architecture and stunning views of the sea. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

9 Kuala Kedah - Langkawi Island

Distance 12 km Driving time 0.4 h Pace: slow 2.8 kWh View map Itinerary
accommodation options EV charging station dining venues scenic road ferry crossing
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip from Kuala Kedah to Langkawi Island? This 12km journey will take you less than 1 hour and you are sure to be mesmerized by the breathtaking views along the way. As you drive, keep your eyes peeled for the scenic road that will take you to the ferry crossing. Once you reach the ferry, you will be rewarded with stunning views of the ocean. Once you reach Langkawi Island, you will be able to explore the many attractions and activities it has to offer. From the beautiful beaches to the lush rainforest, there is something for everyone here. You can also go on a boat tour to explore the many islands around the area. For those who are looking for a more laidback experience, you can take a leisurely stroll along the shore and take in the stunning views of the ocean. There are also plenty of restaurants and accommodation options available for you to choose from. To get the most out of your road trip, make sure to check out the itinerary of this stage for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable road trip!

10 Langkawi Island - Penang Island

Distance 118 km Driving time 1.6 h Pace: fast 35.5 kWh View map Itinerary
accommodation options EV charging station ferry crossing dining venues scenic road
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip that begins in Langkawi Island, Malaysia and ends in Penang Island. This 118 km journey will take you fewer than two hours, and you will be rewarded with stunning views of the countryside. Make sure to take a ferry crossing during this stage of your road trip. Along the way, you will pass some of the most interesting places in these locations, such as the Langkawi Sky Bridge, the Langkawi Cable Car, and the Penang Hill. Make sure to take your time and enjoy the scenic route, as you will be surrounded by lush green forests and crystal-clear waters. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for a memorable road trip!

11 Penang Island - Ipoh

Distance 151 km Driving time 1.8 h Pace: fast 45.3 kWh View map Itinerary
attractive landscape accommodation options EV charging station dining venues scenic road
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip from Penang Island to Ipoh? This stage of your journey will take you through some of Malaysia's most picturesque landscapes and scenic roads. The total distance of this stage is 151 km and it's estimated to take you less than 2 hours to complete. Start your journey in Penang Island, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Malaysia. Here you can explore the many cultural and historical sites, such as the Penang Hill, the Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion, and the Snake Temple. After that, you can drive to Ipoh, the capital of Perak and the third-largest city in Malaysia. Here you can find some of the most beautiful temples and gardens, including the Kek Lok Tong Cave Temple, the Kellie's Castle, and the Sam Poh Tong Temple. Along the way, you can stop and enjoy the breathtaking views of the countryside, or take a break and explore the local villages and towns. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy a bite to eat or a cup of coffee. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready for an unforgettable road trip from Penang Island to Ipoh!

12 Ipoh - Sungai Besar

Distance 158 km Driving time 3.1 h Pace: modest 41.2 kWh View map Itinerary
EV charging station dining venues stretches of winding road
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip that starts in Ipoh, Malaysia and ends in Sungai Besar! This 158 km journey will take you less than 3 hours, but don't be fooled by the short distance, as this route is full of surprises. As you drive, you will be surrounded by lush, green landscapes and winding roads. Your first stop should be the Kinta Valley, located in Ipoh. Here you can explore the many limestone caves and take a dip in the Kinta River. Then, make your way to the Royal Belum State Park, where you can spot various wildlife species and visit the Orang Asli settlement. As you continue your journey, you'll reach the town of Tanjung Malim. Here, you can visit the Sultan Abdul Aziz Royal Gallery and the Sultan Idris Shah II Museum. You can also explore the nearby nature reserves, such as the Bukit Kledang Recreational Park and the Ulu Slim Recreational Park. Finally, you will reach your destination, Sungai Besar. Here, you can explore the many traditional kampungs, take a boat ride in Sungai Besar River, and visit the Sultan Abu Bakar Royal Mausoleum. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

13 Sungai Besar - Kuala Lumpur

Distance 162 km Driving time 3.0 h Pace: modest 42.1 kWh View map Itinerary
accommodation options EV charging station dining venues
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Take a road trip from Sungai Besar to Kuala Lumpur, a journey of 162 km that will take you less than three hours. Start your trip in Sungai Besar and visit the Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport, a small airport with a rich history. Then, head to Kuala Kubu Bharu, the capital of Hulu Selangor. Here, you can explore the Kota Ngah Ibrahim Museum to learn about the history of the region. After that, take a short break at the Fraser's Hill, a hill station with beautiful scenery. Then, drive to Rawang and visit the Bukit Beruntung Recreational Forest. Finally, reach Kuala Lumpur and visit the iconic Petronas Twin Towers, the tallest twin towers in the world. You can also explore the National Monument and the National Mosque. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the Itinerary of this stage.

  Kuala Lumpur

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Kuala Lumpur is the final destination of the "Malaysia Road Trip". As the largest city in the country and the capital, it is a bustling metropolis with a variety of attractions and activities to explore. When visiting Kuala Lumpur, start at the iconic Petronas Twin Towers. These imposing structures are the tallest twin towers in the world and offer a stunning view of the city from the Skybridge. Afterwards, head to the Kuala Lumpur Bird Park, the world's largest free-flight walk-in aviary, and the National Mosque, a stunning building with a capacity of 15,000 worshippers. If you're looking for something a little different, explore the Batu Caves, a series of limestone caves that are home to a Hindu temple and shrine. Other attractions include the Lake Gardens, the National Monument, and the Aquaria KLCC. For those traveling by car, Kuala Lumpur is conveniently located on the main highway between Singapore and Thailand, making it easy to access by road. The nearest international airport is the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), located about 50 km away. Kuala Lumpur is the perfect place to end your "Malaysia Road Trip" and explore the vibrant city. With its many attractions, it is sure to be a memorable experience.

Malaysia Road Trip at a glance

We believe that the presented road trip idea has become an ideal inspiration for your future holiday excursions.
Our itinerary can be used as a foundation that you can recreate in its entirety or only partially and that can be enriched with original highlights of your choice.
If car travel is the preferred travel mode for you, there are a number of vital traffic regulations to follow and a bunch of elements to bear in mind to make your road adventure smooth and safe. The following road rules will surely become useful for all holidaymakers considering car rental or hiring a camper in Malaysia.
Sightseeing around Malaysia in a vehicle requires you to be mindful of the local road rules. Alcohol is best to be avoided at any price when Malaysia is your travel destination. Tourists ought to remember that the legal alcohol limit for drivers is extremely low and amounts to only 0.8‰. Exceeding the maximum speed limit, which is 70km/h, when driving around the build-up areas may result in a speeding ticket. Never exceed the maximum car speed of 90km/h when travelling around non-build-up-areas. On highways, 110km/h is the allowed speed that you should be mindful of. It is best to equip your car with a fire extinguisher and first aid kit and drive with your headlights on at daytime for your own safety.
How about the costs of the trip? Depending on the budget option that you select, the amount of money that you have to spend during the whole road trip may vary. A wide range of budget possibilities is described below.
In the cheapest offer, you need to spend the maximum of 263 EUR on fuel to cover the planned 1,949km across Malaysia. Economy accommodation options can cost holidayers around 374 EUR. Holidaymakers should also take into consideration the fact that they will spend roughly 1,008 EUR for food and restaurants in this option. The cheapest car rental option will also cost about 630 EUR. Thus, you can expect the travel expenses to be around 1,645 EUR without vehicle hire and 2,275 EUR with car rental.
When it comes to the standard offer, you have to spend the maximum of 263 EUR to cover the planned stages of the road trip. If you are into standard accommodation options, you should remember that the expenses may amount up to about 924 EUR. The slightly increased standard in comparison to the budget option entails costs amounting to roughly 1,512 EUR. Travellers who want to cover the tour in a standard rental vehicle should expect a cost of approximately 882 EUR. Summing up the standard offer, the estimated cost of the road trip will total approximately 3,668 EUR for drivers who would like to try vehicle hire and 2,786 EUR for those who are not interested in rental.
The highest level of comfort of the premium option will meet the expectations of the most demanding drivers. When it comes to this offer, the estimated cost of the road trip will total roughly 6,103 EUR for drivers who are considering car hire and 2,786 EUR for those who do not want to rent. Travellers who would like to cover the road trip in a premium rental vehicle should expect a cost of roughly 1,764 EUR. When it comes to the premium configuration of the tour, you will pay around 475 EUR for fuel. Travellers who opt for top services in all aspects of their itinerary should expect to pay around 2,016 EUR for food and restaurants and more or less 1,848 EUR for accommodation.
Our trip will also be perfect for all camper lovers, as it can be easily adjusted to their expectations. If you choose this transport option, the costs will be up to roughly 3,150 EUR. If you are wondering about the gasoline costs for the whole road trip, they will amount to approximately 525 EUR. Drivers who are considering camper rental should expect to pay about 770 EUR for overnight stays and around 1,008 EUR for expenses connected with food.
The section Road Trip Costs shows all the above costs in detail.
The part of Malaysia showed in our Malaysia Road Trip is great to be explored between March and June. There are plenty of beautiful road trips and scenic drives that are available on our website if Malaysia Road Trip has inspired you. We hope that the great versatility of ideas will definitely cater to the needs of the most demanding holidaymakers.

Facts for safer driving in Malaysia

drink drive limit drink drive limit 0.8
max speed urban max speed urban 70 km/h
max speed rural max speed rural 90 km/h
max speed highway max speed highway 110 km/h
headlights at daytime headlights at daytime on
fire extinguisher fire extinguisher no
tolls tolls yes
seat belts seat belts yes

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