Home » News » Ancient rainforests and cool getaways: Why Malaysia’s hidden highlands are the perfect post-pandemic reprieve

14 June, 2021

Ancient rainforests and cool getaways: Why Malaysia’s hidden highlands are the perfect post-pandemic reprieve

By Alexandra Coulton

From bustling Southeast Asian streets and island getaways to ancient rainforests and highland retreats, Malaysia is full of surprises.

Those seeking a relaxing escape and eco-adventurists alike will thank you for including a jaunt through the country’s highlands on their next trip to Malaysia.

A cool, mountain-top reprieve from the tropical heat of the country’s more well-known attractions, the highland region is primarily located in Pahang, the largest state in Peninsular Malaysia and its eco-tourism capital.

Its top three spots are the Cameron Highlands, the Genting Highlands and Fraser’s Hill, where your clients can trek through wild forests, gaze across pristine tea plantations, enjoy a spa treatment or indulge in some family fun.

Cameron Highlands

Located just a three-hour drive from the bustling streets of Kuala Lumpur, the Cameron Highlands landscape is saturated by rolling green hills, offering a cool respite from an action-packed Southeast Asian getaway.

Image source: iStock/chee gin tan

Perhaps one of its most unique attractions is the BOH tea plantation, where clients can enjoy the taste of a hot cuppa with a sweet pastry while soaking up the sprawling views and crisp hillside breeze.

The hills are also home to vibrant rose and lavender gardens and a range of strawberry farms, with some allowing visitors to pick and eat fresh fruit directly from the vine.

For a chance to immerse themselves in Malaysia’s unique natural environment, clients cannot miss a trek through the country’s oldest ecosystem, Mossy Forest.

Image source: iStock/Oleh_Slobodeniuk

Spread across 914 hectares, the mystical forest is thick with moss, mist and even clouds, which often form between the trees.

There is an elevated 200-metre boardwalk, providing a series of wooden platforms through the forest. However, those seeking to hike on the ground would be well advised to hire an experienced, local guide to navigate the labyrinth of greenery.

Genting Highlands

Malaysia’s self-proclaimed City of Entertainment, Genting Highlands, is packed with fun family entertainment with loads of outdoor and indoor theme parks, performances, shopping, golf and a luxurious spa.

Image source: iStock/Supannee_Hickman

Also known as Resort World Genting, the city is brimming with theme parks that offer indoor rollercoasters, arcade games, VR gaming experiences and even jungle trekking activities.

For a “classic Broadway and Steampunk theme, with a gist of The Great Gatsby vibes”, be sure to recommend Skytropolis Funland.

Avid golfers will also enjoy this mountainous retreat, with a unique uphill course on offer at the Awana Genting Highlands Golf and Country Resort. The field is delightfully cool and offers showstopping views.

After a day of action at the city’s theme parks, parents can relax at the Genting Spa and indulge in one of its many treatments to relieve the mind and the body.

Fraser’s Hill

Nestled amongst the Pahang rainforest, your clients will be shocked to discover a small Scottish village complete with mock-Tudor houses and colonial-style buildings.

Image source: iStock/Azmi Razak

The old-world charm of Fraser’s Hill is a nature lover’s paradise, surrounded by the rich biodiversity of untouched rainforests and a plethora of unique flora and fauna along its many hiking trails.

Perfect for a quiet, relaxing short stay, the town also features first-class birdwatching opportunities as well as horseback riding and archery experiences.

Malaysia is ready to welcome your clients, once the time is right to travel again.

Learn more HERE.

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