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.
14
number of days
2,148 km
route length
moderate
budget
family
good for
on the left
traffic direction
moderate
accident level
START
Kuala Lumpur
Distance 2,148 km
Driving time 36.8 h
Pace: modest
558.4 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
39.2 kWh
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Itinerary
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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!
Malacca - Malaysia - Asia - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
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2
Malacca
- Kluang
Distance 155 km
Driving time 2.1 h
Pace: fast
46.5 kWh
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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!
Kluang - Malaysia - Asia - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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3
Kluang
- Mersing
Distance 87 km
Driving time 1.4 h
Pace: fast
26.2 kWh
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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!
Mersing - Malaysia - Asia - Road Trip - pixabay
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4
Mersing
- Pekan
Distance 153 km
Driving time 2.1 h
Pace: fast
46.0 kWh
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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!
Pekan - Malaysia - Asia - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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5
Pekan
- Dungun
Distance 180 km
Driving time 3.1 h
Pace: modest
46.9 kWh
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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!
Dungun - Malaysia - Asia - Road Trip - pixabay
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6
Dungun
- Kota Bharu
Distance 242 km
Driving time 4.3 h
Pace: modest
63.0 kWh
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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!
Kota Bharu - Malaysia - Asia - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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7
Kota Bharu
- Gerik
Distance 217 km
Driving time 3.7 h
Pace: modest
56.3 kWh
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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!
Gerik - Malaysia - Asia - Road Trip - pixabay
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8
Gerik
- Kuala Kedah
Distance 160 km
Driving time 2.6 h
Pace: fast
47.9 kWh
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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!
Kuala Kedah - Malaysia - Asia - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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9
Kuala Kedah
- Langkawi Island
Distance 121 km
Driving time 4.0 h
Pace: slow
27.7 kWh
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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!
Langkawi Island - Malaysia - Asia - Road Trip - www.needpix.com
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10
Langkawi Island
- Penang Island
Distance 229 km
Driving time 5.4 h
Pace: modest
59.5 kWh
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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!
Penang Island - Malaysia - Asia - Road Trip - pixabay
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11
Penang Island
- Ipoh
Distance 151 km
Driving time 1.9 h
Pace: fast
45.3 kWh
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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!
Ipoh - Malaysia - Asia - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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12
Ipoh
- Sungai Besar
Distance 159 km
Driving time 2.3 h
Pace: fast
47.6 kWh
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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!
Sungai Besar - Malaysia - Asia - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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13
Sungai Besar
- Kuala Lumpur
Distance 163 km
Driving time 2.3 h
Pace: fast
49.0 kWh
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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 - Malaysia - Asia - Road Trip - Flickr
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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
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Start:
Kuala Lumpur
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End:
Kuala Lumpur
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Distance:
2,148 km
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Stay:
14 days
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Getting there:
Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL)
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When to drive:
March, April, May, June, September, October, November
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on an extraordinary journey with the Malaysia Road Trip, starting and ending in Kuala Lumpur, spanning approximately 1949 km (1211 miles). This adventure takes you through the heart of Malaysia's rich cultural tapestry and astounding natural wonders, allowing you to savor the country's multifaceted charm.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Kuala Lumpur: The vibrant capital city is a treasure trove of experiences, featuring the iconic Petronas Twin Towers, which were once the tallest buildings in the world, and the bustling street markets of Chinatown.
- Malacca: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Malacca is steeped in history with its well-preserved colonial buildings, the A Famosa fortress, and the culturally-rich Jonker Street night market.
- Kluang: This quaint town is a haven for coffee enthusiasts and foodies who can indulge in traditional Malaysian treats and the famous Kluang Rail Coffee.
- Mersing: The launching point to serene islands such as Tioman and Rawa, Mersing is a coastal town with beautiful beaches and a laid-back atmosphere.
- Dungun: A hidden gem with unspoiled beaches, Dungun is also home to the unique Batik workshops and the gateway to the breathtaking Taman Negara National Park.
- Gerik: The Road to Belum Rainforest takes you through Gerik, where the prehistoric ecosystem is a haven for exotic wildlife and ancient flora, some species of which are found nowhere else on Earth.
- Langkawi Island: Offering more than sun-soaked shores, Langkawi is home to the Sky Bridge, a 125-meter long pedestrian bridge providing stunning panoramic views, and the Geopark, recognized by UNESCO for its geological heritage.
- Penang Island: A cultural melting pot, Penang is renowned for its heritage sites in Georgetown and for having some of the best street food in Southeast Asia, influenced by Malay, Chinese, and Indian flavors.
Best Time to Go:
To fully enjoy what Malaysia has to offer, plan your Road Trip during the dry season, from March to October, to take advantage of the sunny weather and the vibrant greenery post-monsoon season.
Potential Risks:
While Malaysia boasts well-maintained highways, caution is advised on winding Roads, especially in hilly or coastal regions. Seasonal weather changes can also affect driving conditions.
Facts for Roadtrippers:
- This journey offers excellent value for money, catering to budget-friendly and luxury travelers alike.
- Malaysia's cultural mosaic is palpable in its diverse range of culinary delights, ensuring every meal is an adventure in itself.
- With English being widely spoken, it eases interactions and enhances the travel experience.
- Car rentals provide the freedom to explore at your own pace, with options available from economy to premium vehicles.
A good choice for:
The Malaysia Road Trip is more than just a Scenic Drive; it's a deep dive into a nation's soul, blending the excitement of city life, the wisdom of ancient landscapes, the serenity of island paradises, and the harmony of multicultural communities. It's an unforgettable tapestry of experiences that caters to the wanderlust of every traveler.
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