8 must-visit places in Malaysia – Explore the exotic

The metropolitan city of Kuala Lumpur is the first true gateway to savouring Malaysia as a nation of diverse cultures. Whether you stay at a ritzy Hartamas hotel or opt for a place closer to the city centre, Kuala Lumpur offers a wide variety of things to do. You can go to the Central Market to buy artistic handicrafts, shop and above all to try mouth-watering street food. Don't forget to pay a visit to the iconic Petronas Twin Towers. If you are staying at a hotel in the Hartamas such as the Dorsett Hartamas, the towers are about 20 minutes away by taxi. Go to Bukit Bintang to spend a night of pulsating entertainment.

This is an obvious choice. The city harmoniously mixes tradition and modernity. The Kek Lok Si Temple which happens to be the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia is a sight to behold. The hipster Georgetown is famous for its attractive murals. You'll be able to savour the beauty of the old and the new as well as delicious street food when you tour Penang.

Just a little south of Penang lies the former trading port of 'Malaya'. The area is known for its many historical landmarks. The A Famosa Fort and Christ Church are amongst the top-rated historical sites in Melaka. Visit the Portuguese settlement as well as the Dutch Heritage trail to catch a glimpse of the region's past. Don't forget to walk through the Jonker Street Night Market and browse for authentic goods.

The Niah National Park is worth visiting simply for the Niah cave complex alone. The picturesque limestone formation goes back about 16 to 20 million years. No wonder they are a UNESCO World Heritage site. The caves were once home to a Neolithic settlement and human remains which were found in the caves date back 40,000 years. The dense forest surrounding the caves will impress you with its natural beauty.

The highest mountain in Malaysia, Mount Kinabalu is located within a terrain known for its variety of flora and fauna. Climbing the mountain will be an adventure but not one that requires superhuman strength of an athlete. As long as you are fit and take along a guide, you'll enjoy the ascent. The view from the top is breath-taking. If you plan well, you can get to the summit in time for sunrise.

You'll be ascending down from the mountains to the soulful seas when you visit Sipadan. The Island is in the Celebes Sea in the eastern coast of Sabah. The wealth marine life that thrives in the balmy waters of Sipadan, makes it snorkelling and scuba diving paradise. Go diving in the seas to catch glimpses of vibrant corals and enjoy the enchanting presence of turtles alongside other sea creatures.

Genting Highlands is famed as the City of Entertainment. The weather up there is cool and the lush, pleasantly green hills make it a great place for a short holiday away from the heat. The area is known for its numerous casinos but you can even take your family along to visit the Snow World or even the Ripley's Believe It Or Not Adventureland.

Ipoh slips under the travel radar most of the time but it is blessed with wonderful scenery and plenty of activities. The water theme park and the 'Lost World of Tambun' call adults and children alike to enjoy some fun-filled adventures.