Malaysia surprised me with the number of theme parks that they have. There’s enough of them to keep you and your traveling companions — be it your family or your friends — occupied for nearly your entire stay.
Here we list five of these awesome theme parks. Can you guess which one is my favorite?
1. Genting Highlands
The Genting Highlands was an idea inspired by the Cameron Highlands. From that small dream, it grew into a hill resort that now has five hotels, three theme parks, a cable car access and a casino. From Kuala Lumpur, it takes about an hour’s drive to get to Genting Highlands, but if you feel like being adventurous, you can take the Genting Skyway.
The three theme parks over hours of endless entertainment for the family. There’s the Genting Outdoor Theme Park, the First World Indoor Theme Park and the Water Park. Because of its proximity to the capital city, it’s a great place for tourists to go to enjoy the cool mountain air and first class entertainment.
2. Berjaya Hills Resort
Formerly known as Bukit Tinggi Resort, this is a hill resort in Pahang and is very near Genting Highlands. It has several areas of interest that visitors can enjoy, one of which is the Colmar Tropicale, a French-themed hotel and village that is inspired by the town of Colmar in Alsace, France. There is also a Japanese village with a botanical garden and a restaurant and activities for the more active guests are available.
3. The Lost World of Tambun
Water-themed parks seem to be popular in Malaysia, and The Lost World of Tambun is among the most popular. Located in the historical town of Ipoh, it is surrounded by natural forests and limestone mountains giving the impression that it is truly a lost world.
You can enjoy cooling down with your family and friends as you take on Malaysia’s longest inflatable tube ride. For a more relaxing trip, float gently along the 600 meter river that goes around the park. But it isn’t all just about water games.
There’s a petting zoo that you can go to, and if you’re a more adventurous spirit, there are eco-adventure activities that you can participate in. An amusement is also on the grounds for options to enjoy without having to get wet.
4. Sarawak Cultural Village
The Sarawak Cultural Village may not have exciting rides, but it deserves a mention. Sarawak is Malaysia’s largest state home to many cultural ethnic groups including the Iban, Orang Ulu, Melanau, Malays, Chinese, Indians and some other tribes.
The Sarawak Cultural Village is located in the foot of Mount Santubong is considered to be a living museum. Houses that represent the various ethnic groups that live in Sarawak are set up around the park, and each one showcases their culture and lifestyle.
Don’t miss out on the Cultural Show which presents an interactive and educational program about the various dances of the Sarawak people.
5. Legoland Malaysia
When the news of a Legoland opening in up Malaysia first came out, I was beside myself with joy. As a child I had been dreaming of going to the Legoland in Denmark ever since I read about it. With the opening of Legoland in Johor, that dream has become a possibility.
The park opened in September 2012, and more Lego-themed attractions are set to open soon including The Legoland Hotel. The park is open year round, and it has over 40 rides, attractions and shows. It’s a very interactive park, so guests can touch the exhibits.
It has seven areas with various themes including LEGO Technic, LEGO City and MINILAND, where you can see Asian landmarks built with 30 million LEGO pieces.
