A Beginner’s Guide to Genting Highlands
Genting Highlands is one of the most unique resorts in Malaysia, as it sits atop Gunung Ulu Kali, which is approximately 1,800 metres high. Visitors of this attraction will be treated to world-class hotels, casinos, stores, malls and even a thrilling theme park!
It was originally built back in 1965 by Lim Goh Tong as an accessible vacation destination near the country’s capital Kuala Lumpur. Safe to say, he succeeded with his goal as it’s still a must-visit holiday destination for tourists and locals alike today!
If you’re one of those people who’s planning to spend their vacation in this spectacular resort, you’re in luck! Check out our ultimate guide to Genting Highlands below:
Time Zone
Malaysian Time (GMT+8)
Best Time to Go
Thanks to its springlike subtropical climate, Genting Highlands is considered a year-round destination. However, if you want to go there when there’s no chance of rain, we recommend visiting from March to September.
During these months, you can expect to get to the different attractions in the highlands without restrictions because it’s when rainfall is the least.
Things to Know
Currency: Malaysian Ringgit (RM) (Check the current exchange rate)
Language: Malay, English
Calling Code: +60
How to Get to Genting Highlands
Taxis: Riding a taxi is one of the most common ways people from Kuala Lumpur get to Genting Highlands. There’s also a dedicated taxi company called Genting Taxi, which lets people book rides to Genting Highlands and back conveniently.
Bus: The Go Genting Express Bus is the cheapest way to get to the highlands from Kuala Lumpur. Riding this bus will cost around RM10 and the overall trip will take approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes.
Self-drive/car rental: If you prefer to have more comfort and privacy during your trip, you can opt to rent a car. You can choose from several car rentals in KL, Selangor or wherever you’re coming from and drive to Genting at your own pace.
Check out our guide to choosing a rental car here if you don’t know where to begin your search.
How to Get Around
Walkways and escalators: Since Genting Highlands is one huge resort, you’ll find little to no roads when you arrive. Instead, you can simply walk to different destinations with the help of walkways and escalators.
Cable cars: The main and best way to get around the resort, however, is by riding cable cars. This allows guests to drop off at different points of the highlands without breaking a sweat while treating them to magnificent views at the same time.
Where to Stay in Genting Highlands
Crockfords Hotel
Address: Crockfords Hotel, Resorts World, Genting Highlands, 69000 Genting Highlands, Pahang, Malaysia
Phone: +60 3-6105 2262
Pricing: $$$
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Resorts World’s Crockfords Hotel is one of the most luxurious places you can stay in Genting Highlands. It features a classy ambience that perfectly matches its lavish rooms, making its guests feel like royalty!
When we say lavish rooms, we aren’t just talking about elegant designs. This is because the rooms here come with world-class amenities, including an en-suite private steam bath–pretty crazy, right?
Aside from the rooms, the facilities of this hotel are worth highlighting as well such as the casino and spa. Plus, guests will also have the pleasure of getting a free breakfast when they book a stay here!
Also, if you’re driving to Genting, you’ll be pleased to know that each guest has an allotted parking space along with the room itself!
Glamz at Genting
Address: 1, Jln Meranti, 69000 Genting Highlands, Pahang, Malaysia
Phone: +60 12-664 5269
Pricing: $$
Book Now
If you want to camp overnight near Genting Highlands but don’t want to experience the hassle that comes with it, check out Glamz at Genting! Here, you’ll get to stay in one of the site’s huge dome-shaped tents, complete with hotel-like amenities!
Glamz Genting is hands-down one of the best glamping spots in Malaysia and for many good reasons. For starters, it features a great location that allows all of its guests to be treated to beautiful views of its surrounding natural landscapes.
We’ve already mentioned its hotel-like amenities but we wanted to highlight one in particular and that is the jacuzzi. How many times can you say that you went camping in the middle of nature and enjoyed a private jacuzzi at the same time?
Swiss-Garden Hotel & Residences
Address: Windmill Upon Hills, Jalan Permai, 69000 Genting Highlands, Pahang, Malaysia
Phone: +60 3-9213 0777
Pricing: $$
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Swiss-Garden Hotel & Residences is perfect for those guests who want to be on top of the clouds of Genting Highlands and get the best views. Engulfed in a cloudy mist, this hotel will feel and look like something straight out of a movie.
Furthermore, thanks to its location, you’ll be treated to the crispest air you can breathe here in Malaysia! The best place to experience this is at the rooftop sanctuary, where you can also take Instagram-worthy photos with the luscious greenery as your background.
Moreover, this rooftop sanctuary also houses a heated pool, which is perfect for afternoon swims when the temperature is just right.
As for the rooms themselves, you can expect them to be everything you expect from a luxurious hotel. From spacious rooms to complete amenities, these rooms will ensure that each guest is treated to a comfortable stay.
Grand Ion Delemen Hotel
Address: 1, Jalan Ion Delemen, 69000 Genting Highlands, Pahang, Malaysia
Phone: +60 3-6433 2200
Pricing: $$
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If you want to stay at the very peak of Genting Highlands, the Grand Ion Delemen Hotel is the best place to stay. This hotel is located approximately 6,000 feet above sea level, which means that you’ll essentially be sleeping among the clouds.
This height also allows its guests to have some of the most breathtaking views of Genting Highlands from the comfort of their rooms!
Views-aside, however, this hotel is also a solid option because of its premium yet relatively affordable rooms. They offer different suites that are perfect for families, groups, couples, etc., and each one features complete amenities for utmost comfort.
Furthermore, the facilities here are worth mentioning as well, with the biggest highlights being the indoor pool and children’s playground. They also offer a pretty good breakfast buffet, which is an optional addition to your stay.
GEO Resort & Hotel
Address: Jalan Permai 2, Genting Permai Avenue, 69000 Genting Highlands, Pahang, Malaysia
Phone: +60 3-9213 0838
Pricing: $$
Book Now
GEO Resort & Hotel is an establishment we recommend because of its relatively cheaper prices compared to other hotels in Genting Highlands. It’s the perfect “mid-tier” option that doesn’t feel inferior to its more expensive competitors in the market, which is pretty impressive.
We also wanted to recommend this hotel here because of its stellar restaurants. You can find two of them on their premises and both serve delicious dishes, whether it be Western or International dishes!
They also offer a solid selection of facilities that guests can help themselves to during their stay in the hotel. This includes a fitness centre and a nice pool that offers a picturesque view of the vast greenery below the highlands.
Where to Eat in Genting Highland
Burger & Lobster
Address: Lot SA – T2 – 13, Level 1, SkyAvenue, Genting Highlands, 69000 Genting Highlands, Pahang, Malaysia
Phone: +60 3-6105 9186
Pricing: $$
Website
If you want to treat yourselves to some delicious Western cuisine, we recommend checking out Burger & Lobster. As you may have gleaned from its name, this place serves some of the most amazing surf and turf here in Genting Highlands!
You can easily order any item from their menu and you won’t be disappointed. If you want our advice, however, you shouldn’t miss out on their juicy lobster rolls, if you want to try something bougie.
You can also order a slab of steak if you’re famished after a day full of activities. It’s a bit pricey but thanks to its generous serving and amazing flavour, your hunger and taste buds will both be satisfied after you finish your plate!
The Laughing Fish
Address: Lot SA – T2C – 22, & 23, Genting Highlands, 69000 Genting Highlands, Pahang, Malaysia
Pricing: $$$
Website
The Laughing Fish is a must-try dining spot in Genting Highlands for people who love pubs and the food and drinks that come with them. Here, you won’t only get to treat your tummies with heavy-hitting meals, but you’ll also get to have a pint or two for a night to remember!
One of this restaurant’s best offerings includes the good old fish and chips. This match made in heaven never gets old and this version only makes it better by featuring a perfectly-cooked fish that comes with a special sauce.
The fries are worth mentioning as well, as they’re perfectly cooked to achieve just the right amount of crunch. Plus–it’s perfect to eat with or without the accompaniment of a nice cold pint!
Beauty in the Pot
Address: Lot T3 – 25 – 30, Genting Highlands, 69000 Genting Highlands, Pahang, Malaysia
Phone: +60 3-6101 1623
Pricing: $$
Website
Beauty in the Pot is a famous hot pot chain in Malaysia and they’re one of the best to offer this type of dining experience. For starters, the selection of what you can order here is ridiculously varied, which is a good kind of problem if you ask us.
We also see a lot of people recommending the broth featured in this restaurant and it’s not hard to see why. It’s rich, flavourful and best of all, they’re a great accompaniment to the different kinds of meat you’ll be dipping into them.
It’s also one of those rare hot pot restaurants that feature an aesthetically-pleasing interior, so you can expect to take amazing photos here. However, keep in mind that this spot is popular among folks visiting the highlands so make sure to make reservations to lock in your slots!
Paradise Dynasty
Address: Lot T2-03, Level 1, SkyAvenue, 69000 Genting Highlands, Pahang, Malaysia
Phone: +60 3-6101 1772
Pricing: $$
Website
If you want to treat your tastebuds to some of Taiwan’s best delicacies, check out Paradise Dynasty in the SkyAvenue Mall. As soon as you enter its doors, you’ll be greeted by the aromas of whatever they’re cooking up in the kitchen,
This restaurant serves several eye-catching dishes, but one that will pique your interest the most is their xiao long bao. We say this because they come in different bright colours and each one features a unique flavour, which is up to you to discover once you bite into them.
All in all, Paradise Dynasty is a must-try for Asian cuisine lovers. It’s a bit like Din Tai Fung, but it separates itself by featuring unique dishes like the aforementioned coloured xiao long bao.
Dragon-i Peking Duck Restaurant
Address: Lot SA – T2 – 22 & 23, Genting Highlands, 69000 Genting Highlands, Pahang, Malaysia
Phone: +60 3-6101 3880
Pricing: $$
Website
Dragon-i Peking Duck Restaurant should be on the bucket list of every foodie who plans to visit Genting Highlands for several reasons. One of the main ones is its titular Peking duck, which features an extra crispy skin and flavourful meat that isn’t too dry and gamey.
This restaurant is also worth highlighting because of its world-class customer service. Several customers have praised this establishment for having staff members that always greet their customers with a smile, which is a huge deal!
You may encounter a crowd during your visit but don’t worry, as the staff does a great job of queueing customers.
What to Do in Genting Highlands
Go on thrilling rides at Genting Skytropolis
Address: Level 1, First World Plaza Resorts World, 69000 Genting Highlands, Pahang, Malaysia
Phone: +60 3-6101 1118
Website
Whether you’re a thrill seeker or not, visiting Genting Skytropolis should be included in your itinerary. This massive indoor theme park spans over 400,000 square feet, and it houses more than 20 exciting rides that can cater to different kinds of people!
From suspended rollercoasters to big drops and more, you can expect to find a plethora of rides here that will make you scream your lungs out! Fortunately, there are also some “chill” rides such as Ferris wheels and carousels that can be enjoyed by anyone.
Also, one huge advantage of being inside is that the weather won’t affect your experience at all! Rain or shine, you’ll get to enjoy all the rides you want to try to your heart’s content without worrying about catching a cold.
Spend a memorable night at Cloud 9
Address: Lower Lobby Floor, Genting Grand Hotel Resorts World Genting, 69000 Genting Highlands, Pahang, Malaysia
Phone: +60 3-2718 1118
Website
If you want to find the best nightlife spot in Genting Highlands, look no further than Resorts World’s Cloud 9! It’s the hottest neon-lit club in town where boredom is sparse and fun is aplenty thanks to its dance floors and lively crowd.
Here, you and your friends can spend the night jamming to your favourite tunes, and maybe even with a drink at hand! Only the newest and most upbeat songs are blasted through the speakers of this premier nightclub, so it won’t be long until you’re up and dancing.
Take in majestic views at the Swee Caves Temple
Address: Exit 68, Genting Sempah, Pahang, 28750 Bentong, Malaysia
Phone: +60 3-2179 1886
Website
One of the most majestic structures you can visit in Genting Highlands is Swee Caves Temple. It’s a great breath of fresh air after you’ve spent a lot of time in the theme parks, hotels, malls and resorts of Genting.
Speaking of fresh air, the one you’ll get to breathe here is so crisp that you’ll immediately get to tap into your inner zen as you arrive. This is the perfect mindset to have while visiting this temple too, as it’s a place dedicated to Master Chin Swee.
Master Chin Swee was a religious leader for the Taoist community. Locals believe that he’s able to summon rain whenever it’s needed by farmers–pretty neat!
Get spooked at the Haunted Adventure
Address: B66, Genting Highlands, 69000 Genting Highlands, Pahang, Malaysia
Want to experience something thrilling that doesn’t require you to get strapped onto rollercoasters? Then look no further than Haunted Adventure over at First World Plaza!
Here, you and your loved ones will go through a series of twists and turns while being bombarded with jumpscares and spooky elements. It’s also worth mentioning that this maze-like structure is darkened, so be sure to hold hands and stay together!
This is one of the most fun things to do in Genting Highlands because it isn’t anything serious and you’ll all share a laugh after beating it. It can also turn into a funny experience once you see the reactions of the people you’re with.
Ride the cable car and bask in amazing views
Cable cars are the main method of getting around Genting Highlands and it also doubles as a fun and memorable experience as well. This is because as you’re on your way to different points of this elevated resort, you’ll be fascinated by the majestic views around and below you.
This panoramic unobstructed view comes courtesy of the massive windows on both the walls and floors of the cable cars. Don’t worry though as these glass panels are sturdy enough to support your weight so sit back and bask in the amazing views.
On a side note, these cable cars also come with outlets. So if you need to charge your phone, it’s best to do it here before getting to your destination.
Witness the colourful SkySymphony Display
Address: Level 1, SkyAvenue, Genting Highlands, 69000 Genting Highlands, Pahang, Malaysia
Website
Genting Highlands doesn’t fall short of spectacular shows and views and some of them don’t cost anything at all! The perfect example of this is the SkySymphony Display, which is a show of beautiful lights and sounds.
It can be viewed at the SkyAvenue Mall and it features tons of LED lights and screens that come to life with music playing in the background. Aside from that, there are also performers on stage who dance along with the various colourful light bulbs, making the show extra lively.
Pick big and juicy strawberries
One of the most common local products in Genting is strawberries, which is why you’ll find various farms here that grow these sweet berries. This can be attributed to the cold climate of the highlands, which is vital to the growth of these fruits.
This being said, we recommend you try your hand at picking these strawberries at one of the farms you’ll find during your visit here. One farm, in particular, that we recommend because of its sheer size is Strawberry Leisure Farm.
Then, if you want to taste the hard work behind growing these fruits, we recommend heading to the nearby Strawberry Cafe. Here, you can try different strawberry drinks that will satisfy your sweet tooth as well as energize your body after a day of exploring the farm!
Aside from that, it also features a majestic view of the field as well as the surrounding areas, giving you more things to do during your visit.
Try your luck at Casino de Genting
Address: Genting Hotel, Genting Grand, Genting Highlands Resort, 69000 Genting Highlands, Pahang, Malaysia
Phone: +60 3-6101 1118
Website
Genting Highlands has a mini-version of Sin City in the form of Casino de Genting. To call it mini is a crime though, as it’s one of the most massive casinos in the country or in all of Southeast Asia for that matter.
This place is the ultimate gambler’s paradise, as it has everything from slot machines to poker tables, blackjack dealers and more. Even if you aren’t a high-stakes player, however, you can still have some fun and try your hand at the different luck-based games featured here.
Win or lose, one thing’s for sure and that is you’ll never have a dull time in this casino. With all the shimmering lights, massive payouts and fun games, you won’t notice how much time has gone by until you leave its doors!
Get lost in Ripley’s Believe it or Not! Adventureland
Address: Lot SA – T2C – B13, Genting Highlands, 69000 Genting Highlands, Pahang, Malaysia
Phone: +60 17-336 8343
Website
If you’re looking for a great family-friendly spot around Genting Highlands, we recommend checking out Ripley’s Believe it or Not! Adventureland. It’s located inside SkyAvenue Mall so you won’t have a hard time finding it.
This attraction consists of different sub-areas that offer unique designs and exhibitions. For instance, if you want to live out your fantasies of being in the hit TV show, The Walking Dead, you can head to the “Zombie Outbreak!” exhibit.
Meanwhile, if you want to be fascinated by the extinct species of the prehistoric age, you and your little ones can stop by the Jurassic Research Centre.
Here, you’ll find massive statues of these giant beasts. Each one is designed intricately down to the smallest details, which is why they look and feel so realistic but don’t worry, they won’t bite!
Experience winter at the Snow World Experience
Address: Level 2, First World Plaza Resorts World, 69000 Genting Highlands, Pahang, Malaysia
Phone: 60 3-6101 1118
Website
If the cold climate of Genting Highlands isn’t enough for you, then head over to Snow World Experience! Here, the winter season is greatly replicated by the manmade snow, Christmas-themed designs and of course, the freezing temperature!
Fortunately, you’ll be provided with the right clothing on your way in so you won’t have to worry about icicles building up on your eyebrows. Once you’ve layered enough clothes on your body, you can explore the magical winter wonderland this place houses!
You can find igloos, sleds, cartoon creatures and more, which allows you to take tons of pictures. Also, just like in the real winter season, you can also throw snowballs at each other!
Scream your lungs out at Genting SkyWorlds
Address: Genting SkyWorlds, Genting Highlands, 69000 Genting Highlands, Pahang, Malaysia
Phone: +60 19-201 6286
Website
Genting SkyWorlds is arguably the main attraction in Genting Highlands. The outdoor theme park is much bigger than the indoor Skytropolis we mentioned earlier, which means that it has more fun to offer!
The great thing about Genting Skyworlds is its sheer size allows it to have various sections that can cater to different kinds of visitors. Of course, there are high-flying roller coasters that will take you on different twists and turns, but kids can enjoy some tamer ones.
Lastly, it won’t be a theme park without some crazy-looking snacks. Whether you’re looking for fries, churros or any other junk food you can think of, you’ll find something that will catch your eye from the different stalls across the park.
Where to Shop in Genting Highlands
Genting Highlands Premium Outlets
Address: KM13, 69000 Genting Highlands, Pahang, Malaysia
Phone: +60 3-6433 8888
Website
The Genting Highlands Premium Outlets is the premier shopping spot if you’re looking to score some sweet deals on your favourite brands. It’s located at the first stop of the gondola, so you easily swing by before or after your stay on the elevated resort.
This shopping centre is sure to put a smile on the face of shopaholics, as it’s filled with over 100 different stores. Whether you’re looking for shoes, bags, clothes, accessories or more, you’ll find something here that will pique your interest.
You can even find some of the most famous designer brands here such as Hugo Boss, Kate Spade and Coach. Plus, the best part is that their prices won’t be anywhere near the ones you’ll usually find in malls, so grab this opportunity to score some steals!
SkyAvenue
Address: Resorts World Genting, Genting Highlands, 69000 Genting Highlands, Pahang, Malaysia
Phone: +60 3-6101 1118
Website
SkyAvenue is the premier mall in Genting Highlands not just because of its size, but for the variety of stores, restaurants and activities it offers.
The massive size of this shopping mall can be attributed to its past life of being an indoor theme park. Since being renovated, it has been a hot destination for tourists and local visitors alike!
With over a hundred stores across its 5 floors, you’ll get to shop for anything under the sun, whether it be local products, clothes, gadgets, etc. Plus, it also helps that it features tons of restaurants that either serve desserts, local delicacies, international dishes and more.
SkyAvenue is also home to several entertainment attractions, some of which we’ve already mentioned in this guide. This makes it a great destination if you’re looking to spend a day full of activities with your friends and families.
First World Hotel
Address: Genting Highlands, 69000 Genting Highlands, Pahang, Malaysia
Phone: +60 3-2718 1118
Website
Aside from being one of the best hotels in this mountain resort, First World Hotel is also a great shopping destination. It features tons of cute gifts that you can bring home with you to commemorate your trip such as teddy bears, toys, clothes and various knick-knacks.
If you’re more of a sporty type of person, you’ll also be pleased to know that there’s a Nike Factory Store in the hotel. This is great if you’re looking to score athletic/athleisure wear and sneakers at an affordable rate.
What to Expect from Genting Highlands Weather
Wet Season: Genting Highlands can sometimes experience constant rainfall during the wet season of the year, more specifically from October to February. Some days may experience heavier rainfall compared to others as well as a temperature drop.
Dry Season: Since it’s located at the peak of a mountain, Genting Highlands experiences a temperature as low as 10°C – 25°C during the dry season.
Apps to Download for a Trip to Genting Highlands
Grab: Ride-hailing app of Southeast Asia
iOs | Android
Google Translate: A handy translation app
iOs | Android
Maps.me: Offline map of the world
iOs | Android
CatchThatBus: Bus ticket booking app
iOs
XE Currency App: Real-time currency exchange rate app
iOs | Android