Heritage Trails of Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur Arrival

Your journey begins with a warm welcome at Kuala Lumpur International Airport, where you will meet your expert guide. From here, embark on a scenic two-hour drive to the historic city of Malacca, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its vibrant culture and colonial heritage. Upon arrival, settle into the elegant Casa del Rio, your accommodation for the night. The remainder of the day is yours to unwind and explore at your leisure. Take a stroll along the picturesque riverfront or immerse yourself in the local ambiance.

Accommodations: Casa del Rio

Malacca

Morning, join your expert guide for a full-day exploration of Malacca’s captivating heritage. The journey begins at St. Peter’s Church, Malaysia’s oldest functioning Christian church, followed by a drive past Bukit China, the largest Chinese cemetery outside of China. Next, marvel at the Portuguese-era gateway Porta de Santiago (A Famosa) and the serene ruins of St. Paul’s Church, set amidst 17th-century Dutch tombstones. Continue to the vibrant “Red Square” and explore Stadthuys, a former Dutch administrative hub now housing the Malacca Museum. Later, enjoy a leisurely hour-long cruise along the Malacca River, taking in colourful murals, heritage buildings, and Kampong Morten, a traditional Malay village. Afterwards, stroll to Cheng Hoon Teng, the oldest functioning Chinese temple in Malaysia, and savour lunch at a local restaurant. The afternoon takes you to Jonker Street, famous for its antiques, art galleries, and unique souvenirs. Conclude the day by returning to your hotel for a restful evening.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Kuala Lumpur

Begin your day with a leisurely morning to explore Malacca at your own pace. Relish your last moments in this historic city before checking out of the hotel at 11:30 am. Embark on a two-hour drive to Kuala Lumpur, where your heritage adventure continues. Upon arrival, check into the luxurious Ruma Hotel. In the evening, join a vibrant Heritage on a Plate street food tour. Start at Jalan Imbi for a taste of Chinese cuisine, followed by a visit to a traditional Indian Muslim ‘Mamak Shop’. Cap off the evening by learning to prepare local snacks like popiah and onde-onde under the guidance of a skilled host. This immersive experience offers a deeper understanding of Kuala Lumpur’s diverse culinary traditions. Return to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur

Heritage Trail. Morning, embark on a fascinating heritage tour through Kuala Lumpur’s historic heart. Starting from Masjid Jamek LRT Station, explore landmarks around Merdeka Square. Visit colonial-era gems like the Sultan Abdul Samad Building, Dewan Bandaraya (City Hall), and the Old High Court, all rich with history and architectural splendour. Your guide will lead you to other iconic sites, including the Independence Square Flagpole, the Royal Selangor Club, and the Textile Museum. Stroll past the beautiful Cathedral of St Mary and Masjid India before returning to the starting point. The remainder of the day is free for independent exploration or relaxation at your hotel.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Kuala Lumpur

Forgotten Trails. Today, delve into Kuala Lumpur’s hidden treasures with your guide. Begin at Kampung Baru, a traditional Malay village, where small wooden houses stand in contrast to the city’s towering skyscrapers. Enjoy local sweets from a roadside stall before heading to Chow Kit Market, one of KL’s largest wet markets. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Little India, followed by visits to Masjid Jamek mosque, Chinatown, and a traditional Chinese tea house. Learn about the cultural diversity that defines the city while sampling unique treats along the way. Return to your hotel after this enriching five-hour journey.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Kuala Lumpur

Batu Caves – Ipoh. Start your day with breakfast before departing for Batu Caves, an awe-inspiring limestone hill housing a significant Hindu temple. Upon arrival, marvel at the 140-foot golden statue of Lord Murugan at the entrance. Ascend the 272 steps to the temple caves, where you can admire intricate Hindu shrines, enjoy panoramic views of Kuala Lumpur, and encounter the mischievous monkeys that inhabit the area. Following this, journey to Ipoh, a city steeped in colonial charm and tin-mining history. Stroll through the Old Town, filled with Chinese colonial buildings and captivating street art. Then, explore the vibrant New Town, a lively hub of modern shop houses and local businesses. Conclude the day by checking in at the luxurious Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat, where you can unwind amidst serene natural surroundings.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Kuala Lumpur

Ipoh

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the resort before spending the day indulging in the tranquil facilities of the Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat. Bask in the soothing hot springs, explore the lush gardens, or simply relax in the serene atmosphere. This is your chance to rejuvenate and soak in the peaceful vibes of this exclusive retreat.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Accommodations: The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat

Penang Island

After breakfast, set out for Kuala Kangsar, a royal town rich in heritage. Visit the stunning Ubudiah Mosque, famed for its golden domes and Italian marble flooring, and the Iskandariah Palace, the official residence of the Sultan of Perak. Next, continue to Taiping, a historic town known for its many "firsts" in Malaysia, including the country's first museum and public park. Walk the heritage trail to see the Old Market (1884), the Public Library (1882), and All Saints Church (1886), among other landmarks. In the afternoon, travel across Southeast Asia’s fourth-longest bridge to Penang. On arrival, check in at the iconic Eastern & Oriental Hotel. The evening is free for you to relax or explore the vibrant streets of Penang at your leisure.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Penang Island

After breakfast, embark on a half-day tour of George Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Begin at Chowrasta Market, bustling with vendors selling fresh produce and local delicacies. Relish a traditional breakfast at Toh Soon Café, famous for its charcoal-toasted bread. Next, wander through Campbell Street, a historic shopping district, and savour dim sum at a local eatery. Visit Khoo Kongsi Clan House, a masterpiece of Chinese craftsmanship, and Kapitan Kling Mosque, known for its Moorish architecture. Continue to Sri Maha Mariamman Temple and the Goddess of Mercy Temple, both rich in history and vibrant with cultural significance. Indulge in banana leaf rice and the tarik for lunch, a quintessentially Malaysian experience. The afternoon is free for leisure.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Penang Island

Penang Island

Today, explore the captivating sights of Penang on a scenic island tour. Begin at the Penang Batik Handicraft Centre to witness the intricate process of batik making. Visit local street stalls offering a variety of fresh fruits and spices, and continue to serene Malay villages surrounded by lush paddy fields. Your final stop is the Snake Temple, where pit vipers rest on the temple grounds. On the return journey, catch a glimpse of the impressive Penang Bridge. Enjoy the evening at leisure, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Penang or relaxing at your hotel.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Penang Island Departure

After breakfast, bid farewell to Penang as you are transferred to Penang International Airport for your onward journey.

Meals Included: Breakfast