Top 10 unusual things to do in Malaysia

Whenever a tourist lands in an exotic foreign location, he is usually armed with a detailed plan of action. More often than not, these include the usual clichés that most friends, family and other acquaintances suggest. However, there are locations and activities unknown to most tourists that are sure to give you a dose of adrenaline rush. Below is a list of unusual things you should try as soon as you set your foot in Malaysia. 

1.   Homestay

Intruding into someone else’s residence may not seem like the best idea, but when in Malaysia, it just may. Malaysian home stays allow tourists to pitch tent in a kampong or a traditional Malay village. Rustic charm at its best – Guaranteed.

2.   Attend a mock wedding

If you always wondered what goes on during a Malaysian wedding, then here is your answer. Malaysians are kind enough to stage an entire wedding for you, just so that you get a peek into their culture and lifestyle. Most villages give tourists a chance to experience this mock wedding where all the rituals are elaborately performed for the pleasure of the audience.

3.   Turtles nesting

It’s a well-known fact that turtles lay their eggs on the beach and then head out to the ocean leaving their young ones to fend for themselves. Witness the interesting spectacle at Cherating where the incoming tide brings in hundreds to turtles to the beach where they make way for their next generation.

4.   Horse riding

Enjoy horsing around? Savour the adventure of horse riding in Malaysia. These sturdy Malaysian horses are more than happy to let you explore the tropical beaches, dense rainforests and glorious highlands, without major fuss.. Every visitor with a penchant for equestrian sports will find his fill here.

5.   Explore a cave

In most fairytales, most of the treasure is hidden deep in the heart of some cave, where an unsuspecting wanderer stumbles upon it and lives happily ever after. Who knows what you may find here as you explore similarly winding caves in Malaysia! One adventure you don’t want to miss!

6.   Experience a Malaysian massage

Malaysia is synonymous with relaxing massages. Let the experts work on your nerves and feel your worries melt away as you take in the aromas of the oils and enjoy a magical massage in Malaysia. Allow the jamu preparation, a mixture of local herbs and natural sweeteners, take over and make your worries a thing of the past.

7.   Gift a Rafflessia

Nothing says it like flowers. Especially if it is the largest follower found on our planet! The largest flower in the world, the Rafflesia, is found in Malaysia and in full bloom the flower can reach the diameter of over 100 centimeters. Not many are lucky to witness this massive flower. Want to be one?

8.   Feed an Elephant

Elephants, the largest land mammals, may be an imposing sight to behold! At the National Elephant Conservation Centre in Pahang, you can literally get one step closer to them and try feeding these majestic creatures. Try it!

9.   Underwater post office

We’ve heard of snail mail, e-mail and what not? Chuck the usual and send mails that first make a detour to the bottom of the ocean. Catch a glimpse of the famous Underwater Post Office in Malaysia where divers seal your mail in a waterproof vacuum bag and post it underwater.

10. Take a helicopter ride

It is always lonely at the top (other than for your helicopter pilot) and the view is to kill for! Get an aerial view of KL and the surrounding areas with a helicopter ride. Not meant for people with the fear of flying/heights/pure exhilaration.

One experience better than the other is waiting for you in Malaysia. However, the question of essence is ‘ARE YOU’?