Are you looking for a getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life? Genting Highlands is a premier hill resort and entertainment hub that offers a perfect escape from the tropical heat.
Located just an hour’s drive from Kuala Lumpur, this highland destination combines natural beauty with world-class entertainment facilities, providing a unique experience that caters to all types of travelers.
You’ll discover a wide range of attractions and activities, including theme parks, luxury resorts, shopping malls, and Malaysia’s only legal casino, making it an ideal place to visit.
Whether you’re seeking thrilling rides or a relaxing getaway, Genting Highlands has something for everyone, ensuring a memorable visit to this Malaysian hill resort.
Discovering Genting Highlands: Malaysia’s Premier Hill Resort
Genting Highlands, perched atop the Titiwangsa Mountains, is a haven for those seeking relief from the tropical heat. At an elevation of 1,800 meters above sea level, this hill station offers a refreshing microclimate that is a welcome respite from Malaysia’s sweltering temperatures.
Location and Climate
Genting Highlands is strategically located just 35 miles northeast of Kuala Lumpur, making it an ideal getaway for both locals and international visitors. The cool climate, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C, is a significant draw. The area is surrounded by ancient rainforests, creating a misty and ethereal atmosphere, especially during the early mornings and evenings.
The dramatic change in climate as you ascend to Genting Highlands is part of the experience itself. The temperature drops noticeably as you make your way up the mountain, signaling your arrival in a cooler and more serene environment. 
Why Visit Genting Highlands
Visiting Genting Highlands offers a unique experience where you can enjoy both natural beauty and modern entertainment in one destination. The resort area has evolved into a comprehensive entertainment hub featuring world-class hotels, theme parks, and Malaysia’s only legal casino. Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure, Genting Highlands has something for everyone.
Some of the key reasons to visit Genting Highlands include its entertainment options, from casinos to theme parks, ensuring that there’s never a dull moment. The natural beauty of the area, with its lush greenery and scenic views, is perfect for relaxation. As a resort, Genting Highlands provides a perfect balance of accessibility and seclusion, making it a favorite weekend getaway for locals and an intriguing destination for international visitors.
The location and climate of Genting Highlands make it an attractive destination. You can enjoy the cool weather, explore the surrounding rainforests, and experience the modern amenities available at this premier hill resort.
Getting to Genting Highlands
You have several convenient options to reach Genting Highlands, catering to different preferences and budgets. Whether you’re coming from Kuala Lumpur or elsewhere, traveling to Genting Highlands is relatively straightforward.
From Kuala Lumpur
Traveling from Kuala Lumpur to Genting Highlands is easy. The most popular route begins at KL Sentral, where you can catch a direct bus to Awana Bus Terminal at the foot of Genting Highlands. The journey takes approximately 1-1.5 hours, depending on traffic.
Transportation Options
You have multiple transportation options to suit your needs. You can take a bus from KL Sentral to Awana Bus Terminal and then ride the Awana SkyWay cable car to Genting Highlands. Alternatively, you can hire a private car or take a Grab directly to the Awana SkyWay station, although this option is more expensive. If you’re driving, there are ample parking facilities available.
Some key options to consider:
- Bus from KL Sentral to Awana Bus Terminal, followed by the Awana SkyWay cable car
- Hiring a private car or taking a Grab to Awana SkyWay station
- Organized day trips from Kuala Lumpur, which include round-trip transportation and sometimes entry to selected attractions
For the latest bus timetables and prices, you can click here. If you prefer to hire a car, you can do so by clicking here. Regardless of your chosen mode of transportation, you’re sure to have a smooth trip to Genting Highlands.
Soar Above the Rainforest on Awana SkyWay
The Awana SkyWay cable car in Genting Highlands is an unforgettable experience that combines transportation with breathtaking views. As you ride the cable car, you’ll be treated to stunning vistas of the dense rainforest below.
Cable Car Experience
The Awana SkyWay is more than just a mode of transportation – it’s one of Genting Highlands’ most memorable experiences. You can choose between standard gondolas or opt for the glass-floor cabins that provide a thrilling perspective of the forest canopy below. The 10-minute journey takes you from Awana Station at the base to SkyAvenue Station at the resort, with a mid-way stop at Chin Swee Temple Station.
The cable car journey is about time; early morning rides (before 10 AM) typically offer the clearest views and fewer crowds, while evening rides provide a magical experience as the resort lights begin to twinkle against the darkening sky.
Best Time to Ride
To make the most of your Awana SkyWay experience, consider the time of your visit. During peak seasons and weekends, consider purchasing express boarding passes to avoid long waiting times. The cable car operates from 7 AM to midnight, giving you flexibility to plan your ride at the optimal time for your schedule and preferred viewing conditions.
Weather can significantly impact your experience; clear days provide spectacular views extending to the horizon, while foggy conditions create a mystical, ethereal atmosphere as you glide through clouds.
Thrilling Theme Parks and Attractions
For those seeking adventure, Genting Highlands offers an exciting mix of outdoor and indoor theme parks. These parks cater to a wide range of interests and age groups, ensuring that there’s something for everyone.
Genting SkyWorlds Theme Park
Genting SkyWorlds Theme Park, which opened in February 2022, is an outdoor theme park that has been years in the making. With over 26 rides across nine themed worlds inspired by popular animations like Ice Age, Rio, and Robots, it is a haven for thrill-seekers and families alike. The park features a mix of thrilling roller coasters and family-friendly attractions, including immersive 4D experiences.
The themed worlds are designed to transport visitors into their favorite animated movies, with plenty of cool buildings to explore and characters to meet. Kids can enjoy meeting their favorite characters and taking photos, making it a great place for young ones.
Skytropolis Indoor Theme Park
For a weather-proof adventure, head to Skytropolis Indoor Theme Park at Resorts World Genting. This indoor theme park is home to over 20 rides, ranging from gentle attractions for young children to adrenaline-pumping experiences for thrill-seekers. Beyond the rides, Skytropolis features virtual reality attractions, a challenging climbing wall, and unique exhibits showcasing monuments from around the world.
The park is designed to provide an immersive experience, with various dining options and rest areas to ensure visitors can plan a full-day visit without hassle. It’s an ideal destination for families with children of different ages, as it offers attractions suitable for various age groups.
Unique Indoor Attractions at Resorts World Genting
Genting Highlands is more than just a hill resort; it houses unique indoor attractions at Resorts World Genting that are sure to enthrall. When you need a break from the outdoor activities or if the weather isn’t cooperating, these indoor attractions provide a perfect alternative.
Snow World Experience
The Snow World Experience at Resorts World Genting is a winter wonderland in the heart of tropical Malaysia. Here, you can enjoy frigid temperatures and engage in various snow activities like tobogganing, building a snowman, or having a snowball fight. It’s an exciting experience for kids and adults alike, providing a unique opportunity to enjoy snow in a tropical climate.
Ripley’s Adventureland and Other Indoor Activities
Ripley’s Adventureland at SkyAvenue is another hotspot for indoor fun, featuring attractions like the Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium and Zombie Outbreak. The Odditorium showcases bizarre artifacts and interactive exhibits, while Zombie Outbreak immerses you in a simulated zombie apocalypse. Other indoor activities include the Jurassic Research Centre with its life-sized dinosaur models, a 4D Trick Art Museum with optical illusions, and a Jungle Gym for younger children.
These indoor attractions at Resorts World Genting are strategically located, making it easy to move between them without having to step outside. They offer a great way to enjoy Genting Highlands, regardless of the weather.
Genting Highlands, Malaysia: Best Things to Do for Nature Lovers
The natural allure of Genting Highlands makes it an ideal spot for nature lovers, with activities that range from exploring temples to picking fresh strawberries. This hill resort offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences that cater to those seeking a serene getaway.
Chin Swee Caves Temple
The Chin Swee Caves Temple is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the spiritual side of Genting Highlands. This Taoist temple, dedicated to Reverend Chin Swee, is known for its intricate decorations and statues, including a large Buddha statue. The temple is open from 9am to 6pm daily and is easily accessible via the Awana SkyWay by hopping off at Chin Swee Station.
As you explore the temple grounds, you’ll pass through the “10 chambers of hell,” a depiction of the path to enlightenment. The adjacent nine-story pagoda offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, making it a great spot for photography.
Genting Strawberry Leisure Farm
For a more interactive experience with nature, visit the Genting Strawberry Leisure Farm. Here, you can pick your own strawberries from special varieties that grow year-round in the highland climate. The farm also cultivates mushrooms, herbs, vegetables, and flowers, including a 6-acre Lavender Garden that creates a beautiful photo opportunity.
Strawberry picking is not only a fun activity but also a great way to engage kids with nature. Once you’ve picked your strawberries, you simply pay by weight, making it a straightforward and enjoyable experience.
These nature-focused attractions in Genting Highlands provide a perfect counterbalance to the high-energy entertainment options, allowing visitors to appreciate the natural beauty and agricultural potential of Malaysia’s highlands.
Shopping Experiences in Genting Highlands
Shopping in Genting Highlands is an experience like no other. The cool climate and diverse range of shopping options make it a great destination for shoppers.
SkyAvenue Mall
SkyAvenue Mall is Genting Highlands’ premier shopping destination. Spanning five floors, it houses over 100 retail outlets ranging from luxury brands to local boutiques. You’ll find everything from fashion and electronics to unique souvenirs and specialty items.
The mall also features the spectacular SkySymphony show, a free multimedia performance with state-of-the-art visuals projected on a massive screen. This creates an immersive entertainment experience between shopping sessions.
Genting Highlands Premium Outlets
For bargain hunters, Genting Highlands Premium Outlets is a must-visit. This outdoor shopping mall features premium brands like Adidas, Ralph Lauren, Hugo Boss, and Coach at discounted prices. The cooler weather makes it a refreshing place to shop.
The Premium Outlets is located near the Awana SkyWay station, making it a convenient stop on your Genting Highlands itinerary. It is open from 10 AM to 10 PM daily.
Entertainment and Nightlife Options
When night falls, Genting Highlands comes alive with a variety of entertainment options that make it a unique destination for nightlife enthusiasts. The resort offers a range of activities that cater to different tastes and preferences, ensuring that there’s something for everyone.
Try Your Luck at SkyCasino
SkyCasino is Malaysia’s only legal land-based casino, providing a Las Vegas-style experience with various table games like blackjack and poker, alongside numerous slot machines and electronic gaming options. As one of the main attractions in Genting Highlands, it offers a huge gaming floor with multiple venues catering to different preferences.
Live Performances at Arena of Stars
The Arena of Stars is a 5,000-capacity venue that hosts international celebrities, concerts, award shows, and theatrical performances in its 45,000 square foot space. Located near the SkyAvenue Shopping Mall, it is easy to combine shopping, dining, and a show in one evening. You can buy tickets online or at the arena box office, but be sure to act fast as tickets for popular acts sell out quickly.
Beyond SkyCasino and Arena of Stars, Genting Highlands offers various bars and lounges where you can unwind with creative cocktails while enjoying live music or DJ performances. These entertainment options make Genting Highlands a 24-hour destination where you can find something to do regardless of the time, making it a great place to visit.
Culinary Delights: Where to Eat in Genting Highlands
When visiting Genting Highlands, you’ll discover a vibrant food scene that blends traditional Malaysian cuisine with international flavors. The resort offers a diverse culinary landscape that satisfies every palate, from authentic Malaysian street food to international fine dining experiences.
Malaysian Food Street
Malaysian Food Street, located within SkyAvenue, is a gastronomic paradise that replicates the ambiance of traditional street food stalls. You can indulge in a variety of authentic Malaysian dishes under one roof, such as Penang char kway teow and Klang bak kut teh. The food court-style setup provides an accessible introduction to Malaysian cuisine, with reasonable prices and a wide variety of options that showcase the country’s multicultural culinary heritage.
International Dining Options
Beyond Malaysian cuisine, Genting Highlands features numerous restaurants offering international cuisines, including Japanese, Korean, Chinese, Western, and fusion concepts. Fine dining establishments like The Olive provide gourmet experiences with premium ingredients and elegant settings, perfect for special occasions or romantic dinners. You can also enjoy a coffee break with pastries at various cafés and bakeries throughout the resort, some of which feature spectacular mountain views that enhance your dining experience at this popular place.
The incorporation of fresh produce from the surrounding highlands, such as strawberries from nearby farms, into various dishes and desserts adds another layer to the culinary experience in Genting Highlands.
Where to Stay: Accommodation Options
Genting Highlands offers a diverse array of places to stay, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hotels. You can choose to stay at Resorts World Genting, where most of the major attractions are located.
Luxury Resorts
For a luxurious stay, consider the Grand Ion Delemen Hotel. This hotel offers an indoor pool, a cafe, multiple restaurants, a fitness center, and free WiFi. The rooms are well-equipped with double and twin options, as well as one/two/three bedroom suites, making it ideal for families. Each room features a large flat-screen TV and tea and coffee making facilities.
Budget-Friendly Options
If you’re on a budget, Resorts World Genting – First World Hotel is a mid-range option worth considering. It’s connected to the SkyAvenue Mall, and many rooms offer nice views. Although the rooms are smaller, they are equipped with TVs, safes, and private bathrooms. For even more budget-friendly options, consider Genting View Resort, which offers clean and contemporary rooms at affordable rates.
When booking your accommodation, keep in mind that rates can fluctuate significantly between weekdays and weekends or during holiday periods. Visiting during off-peak times can result in substantial savings.
Day Trips from Genting Highlands
The strategic location of Genting Highlands makes it an ideal base for day trips to other attractions in Malaysia. You can easily explore nearby destinations, experiencing the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of the region.
Kuala Lumpur City Tour
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia’s vibrant capital, is just an hour and a half away by bus, making it the most popular day trip destination from Genting Highlands. You can visit many iconic landmarks such as the Petronas Twin Towers, KLCC Park, and Merdeka Square. For a different cultural experience, head to Little India and Bukit Bintang for shopping and dining.
Other Nearby Attractions
Other nearby attractions include the Batu Caves, a Hindu temple complex set in limestone caves just north of Kuala Lumpur. Nature enthusiasts might consider a day trip to the Kuala Gandah Elephant Conservation Center, where you can learn about elephant conservation efforts. The Colmar Tropicale in Berjaya Hills is another unique day trip option, offering a surreal experience of European architecture in the Malaysian highlands.
Planning Your Perfect Genting Highlands Getaway
Maximizing your Genting Highlands experience requires a thoughtful approach to planning, including choosing the right time to visit and how to navigate the area efficiently. To make the most of your trip, consider visiting on weekdays to avoid the crowds that flock to this popular destination on weekends.
When packing for your trip to Genting Highlands, remember to include layers for cooler evenings. If you’re traveling with kids, prioritize family-friendly attractions like Genting SkyWorlds Theme Park and the Strawberry Leisure Farm, which offer a range of interactive activities.
Organizing your itinerary by grouping attractions in the same area can help you make the most of your time. Consider purchasing combination tickets or packages for better value. With 2-3 days, you can enjoy the major attractions without rushing, balancing your time between entertainment, natural sites, culinary experiences, and shopping.
For a hassle-free Genting Highlands guide, download the Resorts World Genting app for maps and real-time information. This will help you navigate the area more efficiently and make the most of your experience in Genting Highlands.
