5 of Malaysia’s Most Scenic Drives to Earmark for Your Next Road Trip
Key Takeaways:
- Scenic routes offer diverse experiences: From coastal towns and lush paddy fields to mountain roads and historic cities, a road trip through Malaysia lets you explore a wide range of landscapes and cultures in just a few hours of driving.
- Food and local attractions enhance the journey: Each stop along the way offers something unique, whether it’s iconic street food in Penang, a cave tour in Gopeng, or a firefly boat ride in Kuala Selangor.
- Preparation is essential for a smooth drive: Make sure to register for your Vehicle Entry Permit, sort out toll payment options, and keep emergency contacts saved before crossing the border.
- Travel insurance provides peace of mind: Plans can change unexpectedly, even on short trips. FlexiTravel Plus Insurance lets you shorten or extend your trip coverage easily1 via My Income app.
Exploring Malaysia Through Its Most Scenic Drives
Craving an open road, a good playlist, and the thrill of discovering something new at every turn? A road trip around Malaysia delivers all that and more. One moment you’re cruising past the sleek skyline of Kuala Lumpur, the next you’re winding through lush paddy fields in Kedah or tracing limestone cliffs in Perak.
From spontaneous food stops to unexpected photo ops, we’ve mapped out some of the most scenic routes for your next Malaysian road trip. Just remember to bring a spare power bank—your camera will be working overtime.
What to Prepare Before Your Malaysia Road Trip
Before your road trip around Malaysia begins, make sure all your paperwork is in order. You’ll need to register for a Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP), which comes with an RFID tag sent to your address. Each time you drive into Malaysia, there’s a Road Charge of RM20 (around S$6.30). Also have your road tax, insurance, and either an International Circulation Permit (ICP) or Certificate of Entitlement (COE)—or both—ready to go.
Most toll payments are now cashless, so consider getting a Touch ‘n Go card or the EZ-Link x Touch ‘n Go Motoring Card. These can be topped up easily at petrol stations or any Watsons outlet across the country.
A well-planned road trip around Malaysia isn’t just about the route; it’s about being ready for the unexpected, too. Travel insurance can help cover you in case of accidents, lost items, or even food poisoning. Income’s FlexiTravel Plus Insurance keeps things affordable with hourly coverage from only $0.302 per hour (capped at $3 per day).
Finally, save key emergency numbers in your phone. Income's Drivo Car Insurance offers 24/7 referral services hotline for road and medical assistance in West Malaysia3, so you can drive with confidence knowing help is always within reach.
Drive 1: Johor–Malacca–Seremban–Kuala Lumpur
This road trip around Malaysia kicks off in Johor Bahru and wraps up in the bustling capital of Kuala Lumpur. The full stretch covers about 268km and can be done in just over three hours, if you’re in a hurry. But where’s the fun in skipping the stops?
Start off in Johor Bahru with a stroll down Jalan Dhoby, one of the city’s oldest streets. Here, traditional kopitiams sit side by side with trendy boutiques and artisan bakeries. Looking to eat like a local? Don’t miss our list of Johor Bahru food spots that are worth a visit.
Once you’re fuelled up, drive out to Gunung Pulai Waterfall for a short nature break. The park is closed on Mondays, and visitors aren’t allowed to bring in food or plastic packaging, so pack light. Soak your feet in the cool waters and recharge before hitting the road again.
As your Malaysian road trip continues, make your way to Malacca City. With its 19th-century shophouses, colonial influences, and colourful street life, Malacca is best explored on foot. Grab seafood at the Portuguese Settlement or snack your way through Jonker Street—think chicken rice balls, satay celup, and icy cendol.
From there, drive up to Seremban and stop at Asia Catering & Confectionery (Siew Pow Master). It’s a local favourite for traditional pastries like flaky siew pau, kaya buns, and old-school egg tarts.
The final leg of your Malaysian road trip takes you to Kuala Lumpur. Capture a time-lapse as the scenery shifts from Seremban’s greenery to KL’s soaring skyline. Once in the city, dive into Petaling Street (Chinatown), where vintage temples like Guan Di and Sri Maha Mariamman sit near Instagram-worthy cafés and alleyways like Kuai Chai Hong. Prefer nature to shopping malls like Pavilion? Swing by the Kuala Lumpur Bird Park or Butterfly Park for a slower pace.
Drive 2: Kuala Lumpur–Sekinchan–Kuala Selangor
Looking to swap city lights for coastal charm? This Malaysian road trip from Kuala Lumpur to Kuala Selangor via Sekinchan covers about 122km and takes roughly two hours by car—perfect for a short getaway with plenty to see and savour.
Your first stop, Sekinchan, is best known for its vast, green paddy fields that stretch into the horizon. It’s no wonder couples often come here for bridal photo shoots as the backdrop is effortlessly picturesque. Swing by Fisherman’s Wharf for a meal with a view of boats bobbing gently in the water. Then, head to the seaside Sekinchan Wishing Tree to toss a ribbon, make a wish, and snap a few photos. Before leaving town, cool off with an ice-blended mango treat at the ever-popular Mango King.
Continue your Malaysian road trip westward to Kuala Selangor, where things slow down just in time for sunset. If you arrive in the evening, don’t miss the magical firefly boat tour through the mangroves. Book your tour at Firefly Park Resort for a front-row seat to nature’s light show.
Cap off the day with a seafood feast at River View Seafood Restaurant (note: they’re closed on Mondays and Thursdays). From steamed fish to curry crab and crispy deep-fried squid, it’s a must-stop for hungry road trippers.
Drive 3: Kuala Lumpur–Genting–Kampung Bukit Tinggi–Kuala Lumpur
If you’re craving fresh mountain air and cooler weather, this road trip to the cooler parts of Malaysia is just what you need. Less than 90 minutes from Kuala Lumpur, it’s the perfect escape without straying too far from the city.
Start your road trip to the cooler parts of Malaysia with a stop at Genting Premium Outlets for a bit of retail therapy. You can stop for lunch there or head slightly downhill to Gohtong Jaya, where Golden Orchid Thai Seafood Restaurant serves authentic dishes like spicy tom yum and fried seafood until 1 am daily.
Next, drive over to Kampung Bukit Tinggi, where you’ll find cosy eateries tucked into the hillside. Restoran Foon Lock is a favourite. Order their steamed frog topped with fragrant Bentong ginger mash and a side of stir-fried vegetables for a hearty meal.
The final leg of your road trip to the cooler parts of Malaysia begins as you leave Bukit Tinggi and head back to the city. But instead of taking the usual Karak Highway, take the scenic route via Jalan Gombak (Route 68). This 44km stretch winds through mountain roads, with views of waterfalls, greenery, and even an Orang Asli Museum along the way. The road is narrow and twisty, making it less suitable for nervous drivers, and should be avoided during heavy rain due to the potential for landslides.
Drive 4: Kuala Lumpur–Ipoh –Taiping
This road trip through the northern region of Malaysia covers approximately 274 km and offers a combination of scenic views, historic landmarks, and must-try food. The drive takes around two hours to reach Ipoh, and once you cross into Perak, you’ll start to see the dramatic limestone formations for which the state is known.
For nature lovers, stop at Gua Tempurung in Gopeng to explore one of Peninsular Malaysia’s largest cave systems. Join a guided tour to see stalactites, stalagmites, and colonies of bats. Another popular stop along the way is Kellie’s Castle in Batu Gajah. Built in 1915 but never completed, the mansion has earned a reputation as one of Malaysia’s most haunted buildings.
Once you reach Ipoh, fuel up with the city’s famous bean sprout chicken. Locals believe the mineral-rich limestone water helps produce plump, crunchy sprouts. Restoran Tauge Ayam Lou Wong is a go-to spot if you want to try this local classic.
Your road trip through the northern region of Malaysia continues in Taman Jubilee, where you can park the car and wander down Concubine Lane. This narrow alley is filled with cafés, souvenir shops, and dessert stalls. Grab some tau fu fah from Ding Feng Dessert or a traditional egg custard at Thean Chun Coffee Shop.
From Ipoh, it’s another hour to Taiping. Cool down with a bowl of cendol and a plate of pasembor at Ansari Famous Cendol, then drop by Antong Coffee. This local roastery has been operating since 1933 and offers both a small museum and great gift-worthy brews.
End the day with a visit to Taiping Zoo’s Night Safari, especially if you’re travelling with children. You can feed the giraffes and learn about animals that are rarely seen outside of the zoo setting. This final stop is a great way to wrap up a Malaysian road trip filled with food, history, and nature.
Drive 5: Alor Setar–Georgetown–Batu Ferringhi
Continue your road trip around the northern states of Malaysia in Alor Setar, the capital of Kedah and one of the country’s main rice-producing states. As you make your way toward Penang, expect to see lush paddy fields and charming kampungs lining the road. It is a scenic 135km journey that takes around 90 minutes by car.
Georgetown offers a mix of old-world charm and vibrant street culture. Step into Fort Cornwallis, the largest fort in Malaysia, and visit St. George’s Church, the oldest Anglican church in Southeast Asia. For something more contemporary, take a stroll to spot the city’s famous murals scattered across alleyways and heritage streets. Kek Lok Si Temple is another highlight, known for its impressive architecture and panoramic views from the top.
No Malaysian road trip would be complete without great food, and Georgetown is packed with it. Stop by Penang Road for a bowl of cendol at Joo Hooi Cafe, then walk over to try the popular Penang Road Famous Laksa. If you're still hungry, continue on to Lorong Selamat for char kway teow cooked over roaring charcoal flames.
From Georgetown, continue driving along the northern coast of Penang Island to Batu Ferringhi. The journey takes about half an hour. Along the way, you can stop at New Cathay Cafe, where the Sai Ram Apom stall is known for its crisp, golden apom manis. You will also find stalls serving prawn mee and wanton mee if you're after something more savoury.
End your road trip around the northern states of Malaysia by the beach at Batu Ferringhi. This coastal stretch is perfect for catching the sunset, with soft waves and open skies creating a peaceful close to the day. For dinner, Knife And Fork Restaurant serves sizzling beef, sweet and sour fish, and other hearty local favourites in a relaxed setting by the sea.
Conclusion
Road tripping through Malaysia’s scenic landscapes is undoubtedly an experience that will create memories to last a lifetime. But with long hours on unfamiliar roads, it is wise to stay prepared.
Travel insurance can provide you with added peace of mind, allowing you to focus on creating memories. With FlexiTravel Plus, coverage includes:
- Up to $150,000 personal accident coverage for unexpected injuries.
- Up to $200,000 overseas medical expenses coverage
- Coverage for loss of handphones and electronic devices due to robbery and snatch theft.
Whether you are travelling solo or with loved ones, having your trip covered from start to finish provides peace of mind. Speak to an Income advisor to find out more about how FlexiTravel Plus can fit into your journey.
1 You must sign up for the coverage prior to leaving Singapore, except if the post-departure purchase extension under Section 25 applies, and end your coverage upon arrival in Singapore through My Income app. If you are intending to make a claim under Section 6 Shortening your trip, you are not to shorten your trip through the My Income app, as your period of insurance needs to include the whole duration of your original trip
2 Premiums will be charged on an hourly basis subject to a minimum premium payable that is equivalent to 6 hours of coverage, and capped at $3 per day.
3 The 24-hour referral services for road and medical assistance are available within Peninsular Malaysia, which includes Penang and Langkawi but excludes the rest of the islands. This service is applicable for Income Private Car Policyholders only.
This article is meant purely for informational purposes and does not constitute an offer, recommendation, solicitation or advise to buy or sell any product(s). It should not be relied upon as financial advice. The precise terms, conditions and exclusions of any Income Insurance products mentioned are specified in their respective policy contracts. Please seek independent financial advice before making any decision.
These policies are protected under the Policy Owners’ Protection Scheme which is administered by the Singapore Deposit Insurance Corporation (SDIC). Coverage for your policy is automatic and no further action is required from you. For more information on the types of benefits that are covered under the scheme as well as the limits of coverage, where applicable, please contact Income Insurance or visit the GIA/LIA or SDIC websites (www.gia.org.sg or www.lia.org.sg or www.sdic.org.sg).
This advertisement has not been reviewed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore.
Related Product(s)
Related Articles
