Diving with Whale Sharks and Night Treks: Malaysia's Best Kept Secrets

Malaysia is a beautiful country with a rich culture and diverse landscape. From the bustling cities to the tranquil beaches, there is something for everyone in Malaysia. In this travel guide, I'll share some unique and uncommon things to do and see in Malaysia that you won't find in the typical tourist guidebooks. If you make your hotel, flight and car rental reservations for your trips through Bitbook, you can benefit from an average of 10% cashback.

Visit the Batu Caves

Located just outside Kuala Lumpur, the Batu Caves are one of Malaysia's most popular tourist attractions. The caves are home to a series of Hindu temples, and visitors can climb the 272 steps to reach the main cave. What makes the Batu Caves unique is the annual Thaipusam festival, where devotees pierce their skin with hooks and skewers and carry offerings up the steps to the temples. It's a fascinating and somewhat gruesome sight, and definitely not something you'll see every day!

Explore the Street Art in Penang

Penang is a city famous for its street art, which can be found on almost every corner. The murals are colorful, vibrant, and often tell stories about the local culture and history. Some of the best-known street art pieces in Penang include the "Little Children on a Bicycle" mural and the "Reaching Up" mural. Take a stroll around the city and see how many murals you can find - it's a great way to get a feel for the local vibe.

Get Off the Beaten Path in Taman Negara

Taman Negara is one of Malaysia's oldest and most famous national parks, but there are still plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to be had here. Take a night walk through the jungle with a local guide to spot nocturnal animals like owls and flying squirrels. Or, take a boat ride down the Tembeling River to see the park from a different perspective. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even go on a multi-day trek through the jungle, camping along the way.

Sample the Street Food in Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is a foodie's paradise, with some of the best street food in the world. From the famous nasi lemak to the delicious char kway teow, there are so many flavors to explore. But the real secret to experiencing the best street food in Kuala Lumpur is to go where the locals go. Head to Jalan Alor or Petaling Street to find the best stalls and carts, and be sure to try some of the more unusual dishes, like the durian fruit or the spicy beef tripe soup.

Dive with Whale Sharks in Semporna

If you're an avid scuba diver, then you won't want to miss the opportunity to dive with whale sharks in Semporna. These gentle giants are the largest fish in the sea, and swimming alongside them is an experience you'll never forget. Semporna is also home to some of the most beautiful coral reefs in Malaysia, so even if you don't spot a whale shark, you'll still have an incredible dive.

Overall, Malaysia is a country full of surprises and hidden gems. While the more popular tourist attractions are definitely worth a visit, don't be afraid to venture off the beaten path and explore some of the less well-known sights and experiences. Who knows what kind of adventure you'll find?

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