1. Petronas Twin Towers
Of course we had to include this. Even though this structure was the tallest building in the world, it still holds the record for being the tallest twin towers in the world! Yay Malaysia! You can take the elevator to the 41st floor to get a view of the city from between the towers through the double-decker sky bridge that joins the two building. On the 86th floor, you’ll be standing over 1,100 feet above ground. Also, here’s a fun fact: the design of the building are meant to showcase both Islamic patterns (the floor plan is based on Islamic geometric forms) and cutting-edge technologies.
2. Batu Caves
One of the most famous touristy places to visit is non other than Batu Caves. Situated at the outskirt of Kuala Lumpur are miles of limestone hills with a massive gold statue guarding just outside the caves – the tallest statue of Lord Murugan in the world which stood tall at 140 feet. While not many people will opt to trek up the hill into the caves, it is one of the recommended activities to consider if you’re an outdoorsy person. If you’re planning to conquer the 272 flights of stairs, go easy and slow! Be sure to pause every now and then to take some scenic photos behind you. When inside, you can explore the temples and be awed by its magnificence. Also, hold on tight to your belongings as the monkeys around the area can get pretty handsy. Oh, and bring some modest clothing. It’s a temple after all.
3. Masjid Kristal a.k.a The Crystal Mosque
This mosque is considered as one of the most unique mosques in the world, which was built mainly with steel and glass. Located on Wan Man island at the Islamic Heritage Park in Kuala Terengganu, it is said that the best time to see the mosque is either early in the morning to catch the sun rise across the horizon, or during dusk when the sun is setting. Be sure to take picture from across the water for the best view. It is accessible by taxi or boat and it is free admission, which is the same as other attractions on the island.
4. Langkawi Sky Bridge
Though Langkawi might be known for its beaches and being an archipelago of 99 islands, it homes one of the most interesting structures in Malaysia. 2,000 feet above sea level is a sky bridge, winding through the rain forest and the peaks of Mount Mat Cincang. It is over 400 feet long and is held together with suspended cables from a singular vertical support. To get there, you need to take a 20-minute ride on Langkawi Cable Bar ride to the top of the mountain – which is also an experience of its own, and enter the bridge. And if you’re lucky and the skies are clear, you can sometimes even see Thailand from there.
5. Tengku Tengah Zaharah Mosque a.k.a Floating Mosque
Constructed on an estuary of the Terengganu River, this astounding beauty combines Moorish architecture with a modern touch as it is thought to be a representation of the modernization of the Terengganu state. It is located less than 3 miles outside of Kuala Terengganu’s city centre, and incorporates classical Islamic designs using local materials like marble and ceramic. If you’re planning to visit here, be sure to arrive early in the evenings just as the sun is about to set as it gives the building a gorgeous golden hue.
6. Masjid Jamek
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Masjid Jamek was once the National Mosque of Malaysia, surrounded by palm trees and features a traditional Moorish design detail such as the iconic white domes. Even from outside, the building is breath-taking. Good news for anyone visiting; there is no entrance fee. If you want to visit, please do take note that women are required to wear modest clothing and cover their heads upon entering. And if you have time, check out Merdeka Square which is home to some of the oldest buildings in the city. And if you’re feeling hungry from all that exploring, head the Chinatown to get some authentic Chinese-Malay delights!
7. New Sarawak State Legislative Assembly Building
Thought you can’t exactly visit the state building, you can get a pretty good look at the umbrella-like roof and architecture from outside. It is located in Kuching and can be seen prominently across the river. To get a really good view, grab a water taxi and specifically request to be taken to the steps across of the building. Dang, look at that!
