10 Fun and Free Things to do in Malaysia

[Madhura Vaishampayan]

Full of history, culture and natural beauty, Malaysia is one of the most favorite holiday spots in Southeast Asia. It’s, therefore, natural for you to assume it as a wallet-destroying destination. But, it isn’t honestly; you can be absolutely contented if you’re looking for pocket-friendly waysto enjoy Malaysia and its awe-inspiring sights.

 

Just take a look at our list of free things to do in Malaysia for more inspiration. Yes, they won’t set you back a single penny. From free national park and museums to quirky shopping and dining experiences, our top suggestions not only allow you to discover the place right, but also at no cost.

See Kuala Lumpur’s Free Museums And Art Galleries

There are many museums and art centers in the capital city which you can explore it without breaking the bank. This includes:

• Royal Malaysia Police Museum: This is one of Kuala Lumpur’s smallest museums, but it packs a punch. With thousands of interesting exhibits arranged across its three sections, it sheds light on the celebrated past of the Malaysian Police force, right from the pre-colonial era and British reign to the current day.
  
• Galeri Petronas:Located inside the Suria KLCC Shopping Mall, it features some charming traditional and stylish contemporary artworks from both local and international artists.
• Bank Negara Malaysia Museum and Art Gallery: Housed within an imposing structure, it comes with a variety of interesting sections such as Islamic Finance Gallery, Bank Negara Gallery, Economic Gallery, Numismatics Gallery and Children’s Gallery.
  
• National Textile Museum: You’ll find this museum within a historical colonial structure dating back to early 1900s. You’ll not only be able to discover several different varieties of fabrics but also its intricate production techniques.
  
• Music Museum: Music lovers are in for a treat at this rightly named museum, where you’ll find a vast spectrum of musical instruments featuring the music of Malays, Indians, Chinese etc. On display here are items like the model of a large drum-like Rebana Ubi and exhibits dedicated to one of the country’s greatest musicians, P. Ramlee.

 

Enjoy Free Parks, Gardens & Forest Reserve In Kuala Lumpur

The city boasts a plethora of well landscaped green spaces which you can experience without spending a dime. Just a few to name among them are:

• KLCC Park: Located right next to the iconic attractions like Petronas Twin Towers and Suria KLCC Shopping Centre, this 50-acre garden is a true oasis of greenery right in the middle of the city, thanks to about 2000 indigenous trees planted here. Moreover, it’s a hub of activities with children’s play area, jogging tracks, and most importantly, the musical fountain show at Lake Symphony.

 

• Perdana Botanical Garden:This is another serene spot for a liberal shot of natural beauty in the city. It was built in 1880s and still continues to be one of the favorite hangout spots for residents and tourists alike. So don’t miss this haven of quietude and scenery in Kuala Lumpur!

 

• KL Forest Eco Park: Formerly known as Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve, this is not only Malaysia’s oldest forest reserves but also the only rainforest within the limits of the capital city. Apart from its stunning beauty, it allows you to participate in a spectrum of activities including canopy walk, trekking, hiking, and picnicking.

 

3. Embark On A Unique Shopping Experience At Pasar Percuma:  The coolest ever (probably the one-of-its-kind) shopping adventure await you here! It’s the region’s only free bazaar and what makes it special is that the shopping here is based on the ancient concept of barter system. Got excited? Yes, just bring your pre-used stuffs like bags, clothes etc and exchange them for your favorite or much-needed item.

Tour Religious Shrines

The region’s religious shrines are more than a place of worship, as they represent the rich multicultural heritage of the country. So here are some of the most unmissable religious points of interest which you can visit for free in Kuala Lumpur are:

• Masjid Jamek: Constructed in 1900s, it used to be the city’s main mosque and is still adored for its awe-inspiring architecture, blending the elements of Islamic, Moorish and Mughal styles.

 

• National Mosque: Also known as Masjid Negara, This is currently the region’s main place of worship. It’s intricately crafted,stunningly vast, and comes with a capacity to hold 15,000 worshippers at a time.

 

• Sri Maha Mariamman Temple: With its striking architecture, it’s the major Hindu shrine in Kuala Lumpur, and you’ll find this in Chinatown, adjacent to Buddhist shrines.

 

• Thean Hou Temple: This Buddhist shrine along Jalan Klang Lama is popular as the Temple of the Goddess of Heaven. It’s devoted to the goddess, Tian Hou, and is definite to win you over with its impressive architecture, stunning location, and tranquil ambience.

 

• Batu Caves: No visit to Kuala Lumpur is probably complete without a trip to Batu Caves. Lying just 30 minutes’ drive away from the city, its highlights include three cave stone temples, together with a 400-million-year-old limestone hill. There is also a giant statue of the Hindu God of War, Lord Muruga. The most thrilling part is that you’ll have to climb more than 270 steps in order to take to the shrines. The bonus is that it greets you with the most striking views over the lush surroundings.

 

Check Out The National Library in Kuala Lumpur

It has been the region’s ultimate attractions for book lovers since 1970s. This beautifully maintained, free attraction provides access to its diverse sections such as an auditorium, gymnasium, badminton court, children’s theater, exhibition hall, and a cafeteria.

 

Visit Penang National Park

This may be one of the smallest national parks in the world, but it retreats you to a haven of enormous natural beauty. That’s not all; you’ll get to see here a turtle sanctuary, a cool swimming beach, hiking trails, and mostly a meromictic lake with two layers of salt and fresh water which however don’t get mixed.

 
Explore Malaysian Architecture In Malacca

The historical city of Malacca is a UNESCO World Heritage Site which is especially noteworthy for its age-old structures and gracefully traditional spots. And if you’re intrigued to know more about the region’s long-standing architectural heritage, you should definitely visit the Malaysian Architecture Museum. It’s a free museum where you’ll not only be enlightened about the country’s architecture history but also make you aware of diverse architecture styles and construction techniques, among others.

 

Make a Trip to Genting Strawberry Leisure Farm

Located about 6000 feet above the sea level and just an hour’s drive from Kuala Lumpur, Genting is mainly visited for its sky-high settings and world-class casinos, theme parks, resorts and nightlife. But, it’s not all about these leisure attractions; it’s also home to the country’s largest strawberry farm. You can purchase pre-packaged strawberries or even choose to pick them directly from the farm, which may cost you RM8 per 100 grams.

 

Experience Cameron Highland’s Tea Plantations

With cooler settings surrounded by verdant greenery all over, Cameron Highlands is dubbed as the country’s Green Bowl and is one of Malaysia’s most exquisite places. It’s especially famed for its awe-inspiring hiking trails and endless tea plantations, which makes it the country’s main producer of tea. And the best part is that you can enjoy a free entry to most of these tea plantations, mainly BOH Tea Estate.

 

Discover Langkawi’s Rice Paddies

Along with its scenic islands, mountainous beauty, and cool turquoise waters, Langkawi is noteworthy for its lush paddy fields. And there is probably no better way to experience the region’s rice fields than with a trip to Laman Padi Langkawi Rice Garden and Museum. This free attraction contains a museum with exhibits depicting the history of rice cultivation in the region. The complex also houses Heritage Gallery, Herb Garden, Paddy Gallery, among others.

 

From the above list, it’s evident that whatever your reasons for traveling to Malaysia, you’ll not only find things that really interest you but also give you the chance to enjoy them for free. So whether you’ve already visited Malaysia or revisiting, you can be guaranteed that there is always something new awaiting here. And about travel formalities, they are super hassle-free with minimal Malaysia visa procedures and packing essentials. Now if you would like to recommend any free Malaysia activities for our readers, feel free to share it in the comment section below.